Necrotizing Fasciitis Following a Small Burn

Abstract

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a life-threatening soft tissue infection that manifests with a rapid course of inflammation and necrosis of the skin, subcutaneous fat, and fascia. NF commonly follows trauma to the skin, such as a laceration, scratch or insect bite. NF is a surgical emergency and requires both a high index of suspicion for diagnosis and prompt operative intervention. Early aggressive surgical intervention is important for improving survival rates. Mortality and morbidity can be decreased with early diagnosis, adequate and urgent surgical debridement, intensive supportive care, and wound resurfacing. Recently, we experienced a case of NF secondary to a third-degree contact burn on the dorsum of the right foot (1% body area). We report our therapeutic experience in this case, with a review of the literature.