Retrospective and prospective study on clinicopathological profile and microbiological flora in necrotising fasciitis

Abstract

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is potentially lethal bacterial infection characterized by widespread necrosis of the skin, subcutaneous tissue and superficial fascia. Retrospective data was collected from the information available in bed head tickets of patients diagnosed as a case of necrotizing fasciitis. Detailed history and clinical examination was done and recorded. Pus was sent for culture and findings were recorded. Significant observations were: Necrotising fasciitis was seen more in males (62.22%) from rural areas (66.67%) with mean age at presentation of 47.13 years, trauma being the most common cause (66.67%) involving mostly extremities (72.22%) with swelling being the most common symptom (94.45%). Local tenderness was the most common sign (92.22%). Polymicrobial infection was found in all the patients with Staphylococcus aureus as the most common isolate (82.22%).