Publication:

Clinical and laboratory risk indicator for necrotizing fasciitis score in predicting the outcomes in necrotizing soft tissue infection patients

Background Necrotizing soft tissue infection (NSTI) is a serious condition that can be diagnosed on a high index of suspicion and require urgent surgical treatment. NSTI involved epidermis and dermis but more frequently it affects the deeper layer of adipose tissue, fascia, and muscle. NSTI diagnosis and its treatment include emergent surgical intervention and the use of appropriate antibiotics. In this study, we have been evaluated the laboratory risk indicator for necrotizing fasciitis (LRINEC) score in predicting the outcomes in patients of NSTI.

Methods We have conducted a prospective study of 36 patients with NSTI. The LRINEC score, predisposing factors, etiology, risk factors, causative microbiological organisms have been studied.

Results LRINEC score >8 is associated with NSTI in all cases. The mortality and morbidity, length of stay including ICU stay increases with an increase in LRINEC score. The most common microorganism was found to be E. coli followed by Klebsiella.

Conclusions Although, we used the emergent and liberal debridement and appropriate antibiotic and resuscitation. In this study, morbidity, mortality, and length of hospital stay all are increased with respect to the increase in LRINEC score.