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Pseudonecrotizing fasciitis due to dialysate and air leak in a peritoneal dialysis patient
Abstract:
Necrotizing fasciitis is a serious, rapidly progressive infection of subcutaneous tissue and fascia. While free intraperitoneal air is known to occur in peritoneal dialysis patient, dissection of this air into the abdominal wall mimicking the subcutaneous emphysema of necrotizing fasciitis has not previously been reported. We herein report the first case of pseudonecrotizing fasciitis due to dialysate fluid and air leak in a patient on peritoneal dialysis and discuss features differentiating this process from true necrotizing fasciitis.
Insights
Pseudonecrotizing fasciitis, a rare condition mimicking necrotizing fasciitis, can occur in peritoneal dialysis patients due to dialysate leaks. This case highlights key differences to distinguish it from true necrotizing fasciitis.
Area of Science:
- Infectious disease
- Nephrology
- Surgical pathology
Background:
- Necrotizing fasciitis is a severe, rapidly progressing soft tissue infection.
- Free intraperitoneal air is a known complication in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis.
Observation:
- A peritoneal dialysis patient presented with abdominal wall findings resembling subcutaneous emphysema.
- This presentation was found to be caused by a dialysate fluid and air leak.
Findings:
- This is the first reported case of pseudonecrotizing fasciitis caused by dialysate leak.
- The condition mimicked the clinical presentation of true necrotizing fasciitis.
Implications:
- Distinguishing pseudonecrotizing fasciitis from true necrotizing fasciitis is crucial for appropriate patient management.
- This case expands the differential diagnosis for subcutaneous emphysema in peritoneal dialysis patients.