Necrotizing Fasciitis of the Abdominal Wall Secondary to Complicated Appendicitis: A Case Report

Abstract

Acute appendicitis is one of the most common surgical emergencies worldwide. Many complications can occur secondary to complicated appendicitis including abscess formation, gangrene, sepsis, and perforation, rarely, leading to abdominal wall necrotizing fasciitis. The incidence of necrotizing fasciitis as a complication of ruptured appendicitis is extremely uncommon. The formation of an enterocutaneous fistula leading to this complication further emphasizes the rarity of such occurrence with few cases reported in the literature. Herein, we present a case of abdominal wall necrotizing fasciitis in a 72-year-old female presenting to the local emergency room with complaints of severe suprapubic abdominal pain associated with abdominal distension and acute onset foul-smelling drainage. Physical exam was significant for suprapubic and right lower quadrant abdominal tenderness with associated large indurated tender lesion and purulent weeping with large ecchymosis. Abdominal computed tomography (CT) revealed extensive subcutaneous emphysema, a large cavity with layering fluid extending into the peritoneal space, and a possible fistula formation between the intra-abdominal cavity and subcutaneous tissue. Following the diagnosis of probable necrotizing fasciitis secondary to fistula formation, the patient underwent emergent exploratory laparotomy and extensive debridement of necrotic tissue. In this report, we take the opportunity to highlight the importance of promptly recognizing and treating this uncommon complication and maintaining a high level of suspicion to prevent life-threatening consequences.