How many cases of necrotizing fasciitis occur each year?

According to the Center for Disease Control there is an estimated 9,000-11,500 cases of necrotizing fasciitis occur each year in the United States, with a resultant 1,000-1,800 deaths annually..

Where are the most cases of flesh-eating bacteria?

vulnificus thrives in water that is 70 degrees Fahrenheit or warmer, which is why numerous cases have been reported in areas contacting the Gulf of Mexico. All flesh-eating bacteria require a port of entry to get under one’s skin.

How do you get the flesh-eating bacteria?

Flesh-eating bacteria enter the body through breaks in the skin, such as cuts or insect bites, but can also be ingested by eating contaminated seafood. The bacteria attack and kill the skin, fat just beneath the skin, and fasciae, thin tissue that encloses muscles or organs.

Where is necrotizing fasciitis most commonly found in the world?

The most common body sites where necrotizing fasciitis tends to occur are the extremities (arms, hands, feet and legs). However, necrotizing fasciitis can also occur in the head, neck and groin regions depending on the circumstances and risk factors.

How many people survive necrotising fasciitis?

Even with treatment, up to 1 in 3 people with necrotizing fasciitis die from the infection. Six out of every 10 people who get both necrotizing fasciitis and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome at the same time die from their infections.

How long does it take for flesh-eating bacteria to spread?

It is a very severe bacterial infection that spreads quickly through the tissue (flesh) surrounding the muscles. In some cases death can occur within 12 to 24 hours. Necrotizing fasciitis kills about 1 in 4 people infected with it. Necrotizing fasciitis may start from an infection in a minor cut or bruise.

Is necrotizing fasciitis fatal?

Serious Complications Are Common Necrotizing fasciitis can lead to sepsis, shock, and organ failure. It can also result in life-long complications from loss of limbs or severe scarring due to surgically removing infected tissue. Even with treatment, up to 1 in 3 people with necrotizing fasciitis die from the infection.

What happens if necrotizing fasciitis is left untreated?

Necrotizing fasciitis can lead to sepsis, shock, and organ failure. It can also result in life-long complications from loss of limbs or severe scarring due to surgically removing infected tissue.