What Is Necrotising Fasciitis?
Necrotising Fasciitis (sometimes spelt Necrotizing Fasciitis) is a rare but serious disease that is often called the flesh eating bug.
The disease develops when a certain type of bacteria enter the body. This may be through a small cut, an open wound or even a tiny break in the skin (for example, a hospital patient who has an intravenous drip). Once the bacteria are inside the body, they reproduce and rapidly multiply. As they do so, they release toxins which are incredibly poisonous, harming the body's tissue and underlying fascia. If left untreated, the toxins will continue to eat away at the tissue until eventually the skin dies – known medically as becoming 'necrotic'.
How To Diagnose Necrotising Fasciitis
Necrotising Fasciitis is a rare disease, meaning many medical professionals will not have seen it during their career. But because it is such a serious condition, it is vital doctors are aware of the symptoms, as it must be treated immediately if a patient is to make a successful recovery.
Early symptoms include:-
- Extreme pain that seems disproportionate to the injury;
- Flu-like symptoms;
- Nausea and vomiting;
- Skin that is red and swollen;
- Diahorrea.
When a patient presents with a combination of these symptoms, they should act as warning signals, alerting doctors to the possibility of Necrotising Fasciitis. In particular, severe localised pain that is disproportionate to an injury should help confirm a diagnosis.
If Necrotising Fasciitis is suspected, a patient can be started on antibiotics without delay. This will help to kill the bacteria, ensuring they do not continue to reproduce. Tests can then be done to verify whether or not Necrotising Fasciitis is indeed present. If so a patient will need to have the necrotic skin removed, a procedure known as 'debridement'. The amount of skin that must be removed will depend upon how extensive the damage is. In some cases, a large amount of tissue must be excised.
A Delay In Diagnosing Necrotising Fasciitis – What Are The Consequences?
If there is a delay in diagnosing Necrotising Fasciitis, there will undoubtedly be very serious consequences. Indeed, as an aggressive flesh-eating bug, the bacteria need to be killed with antibiotics as soon as possible. Otherwise, they will continue to attack the tissue and very quickly a large amount of skin will become necrotic. When in the later stages of the disease (which can happen between 24-36 hours), a patient's prospect of a quick recovery will be severely hindered. Depending upon how extensive the damage is, a patient may be left with a deformity, lose a limb or need reconstructive surgery. In the most serious cases, Necrotising Fasciitis can be fatal.
A Delay in Diagnosis – What Action Can You Take?
If there is a delay in diagnosing Necrotising Fasciitis, a patient's health will be put at risk, often leading to serious complications. If this has happened to you or a loved one, you will understandably be feeling very angry and upset, and may consider whether there is any action you can take. The good news is that you may be able to make a medical negligence claim. A solicitor will be able to provide more information, explaining the process and guiding through every step. If successful, you will be awarded compensation to recompense for the negligent treatment you have experienced.
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