Necrotizing fasciitis due to mycobacterium tuberculosis: A case report

We admitted a patient with extensive and rapidly progressing necrotizing fasciitis, pulmonary tuberculosis, cutaneous tuberculosis, and bacterial infections because of late diagnosis and treatment. Early diagnosis is necessary for both cutaneous tuberculosis and necrotizing fasciitis. However, these are rare clinical manifestations and are difficult to detect. Despite surgical and pharmacologic treatment, the patient had poor outcomes. We discussed the next-generation sequencing test for early tuberculosis diagnosis, especially for atypical ones. The modified and typical laboratory risk indicator for necrotizing fasciitis score was used for diagnosing and identifying patients at high risk for necrotizing fasciitis. Subcutaneous effusions and gas accumulations observed through imaging were useful in assessing necrotizing fasciitis progression. Debridement or tuberculosis treatment should be initiated as early as possible in managing patients with both necrotizing fasciitis and cutaneous tuberculosis. Clinicians should be alert in identifying the condition, whether Mycobacteria tuberculosis is the independent cause of necrotizing fasciitis, and treating the condition. The choice of rapid microbial diagnostic tools should be of concern. Debridement or tuberculosis treatment should be initiated as early as possible in managing patients with both necrotizing fasciitis and cutaneous tuberculosis. Multidisciplinary cooperation should be considered.