This rare disease, caused by a bacterium, causes death by necrosis of the infected tissues. Is it a common condition? What are the symptoms ? And how to treat it?
What is necrotizing fasciitis?
This disease is also known under the sad name of “flesh-eating disease. It is a rare infection that affects the deep and superficial fascia. The fascia is a membrane that surrounds the muscles, organs, ligaments, bones, nerves, viscera… present in the human body. This infection causes death of infected tissue. Necrotizing fasciitis is very rare, affecting only 3 to 7 people in a million each year.
What causes necrotizing fasciitis?
“Necrotizing fasciitis can be caused by different bacteria, the best known of which is group A streptococcus, a bacterium at the origin of many very diverse diseases such as angina, scarlet fever, impetigo, pneumonia… Other germs are involved sometimes associated with each other (Staphylococcus aureus, Clostridium perfringens, Vibrio vulnificus)“, explains Dr. Viraben. People who have undergone surgery, diabetics and immunocompromised people are most likely to contract this disease.
The bacterium is contagious. It spreads when we kiss someone contaminated or using their utensils.
What are the symptoms ?
This condition is characterized by:
- Sometimes from fever
- Of the strong pains in the infected area
- A red, painful, rapid swelling since it extends up to 3 cm/hour
“It is fatal in 30% of cases.“, specifies the dermatologist.
What are the treatments ?
A treatment antibiotic is prescribed to fight the bacteria. But its effectiveness is limited. Surgery removes dead tissue. “Beware of anti-inflammatories that aggravate or trigger the infection“says Dr. Viraben.
Thanks to Dr. Roland Viraben, dermatologist and member of the National Syndicate of Dermatologists-Venerologists (SNDV).