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[Streptococcal gangrene and so-called "flesh-eating bacteria disease". A rare and devastating disease]

M L Fernández Guerrero1, G Martínez Quesada, M Bernácer Borja

  • 1Departamento de Medicina Interna, Fundación Jiménez Díaz, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid.

Revista Clinica Espanola
|April 27, 1999
PubMed

Insights

Streptococcal gangrene, a severe flesh-eating bacterial disease, is rare despite its notoriety. This study reviews its clinical features and recent literature, finding no significant increase in infections.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pathology
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Necrotizing fasciitis, particularly streptococcal gangrene, is a severe condition with high mortality.
  • Public perception suggests an increasing incidence of severe Streptococcus pneumoniae infections.
  • Understanding the true incidence and characteristics of streptococcal gangrene is crucial.

Observation:

  • The institution observed only three cases of streptococcal gangrene in the past 12 years.
  • A review of bacteremic infections caused by beta-hemolytic streptococci did not reveal a significant increase.
  • This contrasts with the popular notion of a rising incidence of flesh-eating bacterial disease.

Findings:

  • Streptococcal gangrene is characterized by rapid tissue destruction and systemic toxicity.
  • Clinical presentation includes severe pain, edema, and skin necrosis.
  • Pathological findings confirm extensive bacterial invasion and inflammation.

Implications:

  • The study suggests that streptococcal gangrene, while severe, may not be increasing in incidence.
  • Accurate diagnosis and prompt management are critical for patient outcomes.
  • Further research is needed to clarify the epidemiology and risk factors.

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