Necrotizing fasciitis can be classified by the bacterial isolates. The type of isolate often correlates with the clinical history and course.
Bacterial Isolate
Type
polymicrobic (with synergistic action)
I
Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A beta-hemolytic)
II
Vibrio species
III
Features of Type I:
(1) underlying comorbidity usually present
(2) often preceded by a cellulitis
(3) may follow a fulminant course, often with sepsis and/or multi-organ failure
Features of Type II:
(1) underlying comorbidity often absent
(2) may be more frequently seen in pediatric patients
(3) may follow a seemingly minor abrasion or injury
(4) usually evolves over days
Features of Type III:
(2) history of exposure to salt water or seafood
where:
• The combination of Streptococcus pyogenes and Staphylococcus aureus may share features of Type I and II.
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Specialty: Infectious Diseases, Surgery, general
ICD-10: ,
