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Necrotizing soft tissue infections

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Abstract

Necrotizing soft tissue infections are characterized by necrosis of skin and associated structures. Despite advances in the diagnosis and treatment of these infections, the mortality remains high. There have been increasing reports of necrotizing fasciitis caused by group A Streptococcus over the past decade. Recent information supports the role of superantigens in the pathogenesis of this infection. The approach to management requires expeditious evaluation with early surgery and appropriate antimicrobial agents. Limited data suggest that surgical debridement may be delayed in selected patients until the patient is stable by the use of intravenous immunoglobulin, which can neutralize superantigens.

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  1. OH, and Summa Health System, Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine, Rootstown, 75 Arch Street, Suite 105, 44304, Akron, OH, USA

    Thomas M. File Jr MS, MD

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File, T.M. Necrotizing soft tissue infections. Curr Infect Dis Rep 5, 407–415 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11908-003-0021-y

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