Necrotising Fasciitis Causes and Symptoms
In this article we look at the causes and symptoms of necrotising fasciitis. If you would like any further information, particularly about necrotising fasciitis medical negligence claims, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us. We specialise in medical compensation claims and will be able to help you further.
Necrotising fasciitis causes
Necrotising fasciitis is caused by bacteria which get into the body's deep tissues. For this to happen, there must be a way for the bacteria to enter the body – for instance, a cut, surgical incision, needle entry wound, burn or natural opening (such as the eye).
There are many different types of bacteria, and only some of these will result in necrotising fasciitis. Most commonly necrotising fasciitis is caused by the Group A Streptococcus bacteria. This is the same bacteria which cause a sore, or 'strep', throat. If the bacteria manage to get into the deep tissues, it will result in necrotising fasciitis.
Other bacteria which can lead to necrotising fasciitis include aeromonas hydophila, clostridium, E. coli, klebsiella and staphylococcus aureus. >
Necrotising fasciitis symptoms
When the bacteria reach the deep tissues they will start to reproduce. This releases a toxin which destroys the surrounding tissue. This will result in the following symptoms:
- Extreme pain that has no obvious cause
- At the site of pain – skin which is red, hot to touch and swollen
- Flu-like symptoms
Necrotising fasciitis is a progressive condition so the symptoms will get worse over time. Necrotising fasciitis is very rapid so it will not be long until the more advanced symptoms of the illness appear, including:
- Blistered skin
- A rash that turns dark red to purple/black in colour
- Flaking skin as tissue death occurs
- Confusion and loss of consciousness due to septic shock
Recognising the symptoms of necrotising fasciitis is the first step towards a diagnosis. The symptoms should lead medical practitioners to conduct a surgical exploration to look for evidence of necrotic tissue. If present, surgical debridement to remove the infected tissue must be performed.
Necrotising fasciitis claims
Necrotising fasciitis is a rare condition, but it is one which can readily lead to a medical negligence claim. This is because doctors must be quick to diagnose and treat the condition.
Sadly this care is not always achieved because medical practitioners do not recognise the patient's symptoms, or do not act soon enough. The impact of this can be devastating for the patient, who can lose significant amounts of tissue, a limb or even suffer life-threatening complications.
If you or your loved one has grounds for a medical negligence claim, please get in touch with us to talk to one of our expert solicitors.
Contact us today
To make a necrotising fasciitis medical negligence compensation claim, please get in touch with us today.
Please call us free on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
Make An Enquiry
Why Choose Us
- Specialist medical negligence solicitors
- Free initial enquiries
- No win, no fee available
Reviews
Our Expertise
Helping Clients Across England & Wales
