Clinical Features and Microbiological Profile of Necrotizing Fasciitis at a Tertiary Care Centre

Introduction: Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a major global surgical emergency and still considered as a social disease in India reflecting the standards of living in a community. Aim: The aim of the present study was to study microbiological profile of NF along with surgical features. Materials and Methods: About 50 cases of NF were studied over a period of 9 months in Katihar Medical College between 2015 and 2016 with emphasis on the mode of presentation and microbiological profile. Results: Maximum 36% of the cases were in the age group of 51-60 years. The sex incidence revealed a male to female ratio of 11.5:1 showing a male preponderance particularly affecting those who were engaged in outdoor activities such as farming. Diabetes mellitus was the most common risk factors in these patients. Streptococcus, Pseudomonas, and Escherichia coli were the most common organism isolated in wound cultures. Organisms were mostly sensitive to aminoglycosides such as amikacin, gentamicin, and fluoroquinolones. Conclusion: NF has varied presentations as shown by this study with predominant symptoms of tenderness and edema. Good results can be obtained by adopting a multidisciplinary approach along with prompt diagnosis and surgical care in hospital settings, health education, and awareness about dreaded complication of this disease.