Published Paper Details:

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a rare, rapidly progressive, and potentially life-threatening soft tissue infection characterized by extensive necrosis of the fascia and surrounding subcutaneous tissues. It is commonly caused by polymicrobial organisms or Group A Streptococcus and is associated with high morbidity and mortality if not diagnosed and treated promptly. Clinical manifestations typically include severe pain disproportionate to physical findings, erythema, edema, fever, and systemic toxicity. Early diagnosis remains challenging because initial symptoms may resemble less severe skin and soft tissue infections. Diagnostic evaluation is primarily based on clinical assessment and may be supported by laboratory investigations, imaging modalities such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and scoring systems including the Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotizing Fasciitis (LRINEC). Prompt surgical debridement, aggressive supportive care, and broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotic therapy constitute the mainstay of management. Delayed intervention significantly increases the risk of septic shock, multiorgan failure, limb loss, and mortality. This review summarizes the epidemiology, etiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic approaches, and current management strategies of necrotizing fasciitis, with emphasis on the importance of early recognition and multidisciplinary treatment for improving patient outcomes.