Necrotizing fasciitis: a comparative analysis of 56 cases

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Surgical Pathology
• Public Health

Background:

• Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a severe, rapidly progressing synergistic polymicrobial soft-tissue infection.
• It is associated with extensive necrosis, systemic toxicity, high morbidity, and mortality.
• While NF affects all age groups, adults are typically more affected than children.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the clinical presentation and treatment outcomes of necrotizing fasciitis in pediatric and adult populations.
• To identify key differences and similarities in the management of NF between children and adults.

Main Methods:

• A four-year prospective descriptive study was conducted.
• Consecutive patients diagnosed with NF (excluding specific conditions) were analyzed.
• Data collection focused on presentation, precipitating factors, affected areas, treatment, and outcomes.

Main Results:

• NF was more common in children (57.1%) than adults (42.9%) in this Nigerian cohort.
• Trauma and minor skin infections were common triggers; the trunk was most affected in children, lower limbs in adults.
• Polymicrobial infection was typical; wound closure varied by age, and septicemia was a frequent complication. Mortality rates were 9.4% in children and 16.7% in adults.

Conclusions:

• Necrotizing fasciitis is more frequently observed in children than adults in northwestern Nigeria.
• Effective management hinges on early diagnosis, aggressive surgical intervention, and comprehensive supportive therapy.