A rare case of multi-focal non-contiguous necrotizing soft tissue infections and literature review

Abstract

Abstract Necrotising soft tissue infection (NSTI) is a rare yet life-threatening surgical emergency, characterized by rapidly spreading infection below the epidermis to the soft tissue layers of the dermis, subcutaneous layers, fascia and sometimes muscle. Multi-focal NSTIs have been rarely described in the literature, with reported cases predominantly involving immunocompromised patients. We report a case of an immunocompromised 70-year-old woman who initially presented with concern of a perforated colonic malignancy requiring exploratory laparotomy and within 24 hours while on inotropes, developed rapidly progressing necrotizing fasciitis (NF) of the left thigh with renal failure secondary to sepsis. Despite aggressive debridement, a progress computed tomography later showed multi-focal non-contiguous necrotising myositis of the whole left lower limb and right gluteal regions. Early diagnosis of multi-focal NF especially in immunocompromised patients, repeat assessment, aggressive surgical debridement and prompt antibiotics usage are the key to treatment.