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Bilateral upper limb necrotizing fasciitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus

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European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a progressive, rapidly spreading infection located in the deep fascia, which leads to secondary necrosis of subcutaneous tissues. NF can be caused by a number of aetiologies and its pathophysiology is often polymicrobial. Variability in presentation and the paucity of initial clinical signs can make the diagnosis of NF very difficult. The mortality and morbidity of this condition still remain very high and this condition represents a surgical emergency. We report a very rare presentation of bilateral upper limb necrotizing fasciitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus in a previously well 60-year-old lady. This necessitated urgent surgical debridement and a multidisciplinary approach to her ongoing care. The diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, facing the clinician, in the management of NF are discussed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, Milton Keynes General Hospital, Standing Way, Eaglestone, Milton Keynes, MK6 5LD, UK

    A. Kothari, Y. R. Shah & A. S. Floyd

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  1. A. Kothari
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  2. Y. R. Shah
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  3. A. S. Floyd
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Correspondence to A. Kothari.

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Kothari, A., Shah, Y.R. & Floyd, A.S. Bilateral upper limb necrotizing fasciitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus . Eur J Orthop Surg Traumatol 19, 187–190 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00590-008-0402-x

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00590-008-0402-x

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