Neonatal necrotising fasciitis--Varanasi experience
Ajay Narayan Gangopadhyay1, Anand Pandey, Vijay Dutt Upadhyay
1Department of Pediatric Surgery, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, Uttar Pradesh, India.
International Wound Journal
|December 18, 2007
Summary
Neonatal necrotising fasciitis (NNF) is a rare, fatal condition. Early intervention with IV antibiotics and surgery significantly improves survival rates in affected infants.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Neonatal necrotising fasciitis (NNF) is a rare and life-threatening soft tissue infection.
- Prompt diagnosis and intervention are critical for improving patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the single-center experience on the presentation, management, and outcomes of NNF.
- To identify key factors influencing survival in neonates with NNF.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 15 NNF cases managed over 5 years.
- Analysis of patient demographics, clinical presentation, treatment strategies, and outcomes.
Main Results:
- NNF commonly affected neonates aged 10-28 days, with a 2:1 male-to-female ratio.
- The neck and scalp were the most frequent sites of infection (53.3%).
- Staphylococcus species were predominant in the few cases with positive cultures; 66% were unimicrobial.
Conclusions:
- NNF is a severe neonatal disorder requiring urgent management.
- Intravenous antibiotics, supportive care, and surgical debridement are essential for improving survival rates.
- Premature infants with NNF experienced poorer outcomes.
