Necrotizing fasciitis is also known as the flesh-eating disease which is a type of skin infection that results in the progressive necrosis of skin tissue. The disease spreads rapidly along the fascia, destroying skin, muscle, and tissue in its path. It is the fastest spreading infection known. If not treated early, the condition can be life-threatening.
Necrotizing fasciitis is an inflammatory disease that chiefly arises from bacterial origins. More than 55% of all cases involve multiple bacteria entering the skin. Typical suspects include Group A Streptococcus and Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).
Typically, the infection enters the body through an area of trauma — wounds, cuts, or even insect bites. Immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk of developing the condition. More than 70% of necrotizing fasciitis cases involve individuals with comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus, obesity, and chronic system diseases.