Necrotising soft tissue infections

Abstract

Necrotising soft tissue infections can affect the skin, subcutaneous tissue, superficial fascia, deep fascia and musculature. The infections are severe, they spread quickly and can result in extensive tissue loss. Although rare, morbidity and mortality rates are high. Early clinical identification is crucial for the outcome, and rapid infection control through surgery and targeted antibiotic treatment is needed to save lives. Few prospective clinical trials have been conducted for the treatment of this type of infection. Specific challenges include rapid identification of the condition and the uncertain efficacy of the various treatment options. In this clinical review article, we describe clinical characteristics, diagnostics and treatment.