Necrotizing Infections of the Hand and Wrist: Diagnosis and Treatment Options

J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2020 Jan 15;28(2):e55-e63. doi: 10.5435/JAAOS-D-17-00716.

Abstract

Necrotizing infections of the hand and wrist are important clinical entities because of their rapidly progressive and potentially lethal nature. These infections encompass a spectrum of diseases with overlapping signs and symptoms, which can be subtle and nonspecific. If the brief prodromal period of these infections goes unrecognized, a local area of devitalized tissue can evolve into fulminant infection, multiorgan failure, and potentially death. Early recognition and treatment including administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics and surgical débridement are paramount to improving patient outcomes.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Fasciitis, Necrotizing / diagnosis*
  • Fasciitis, Necrotizing / microbiology
  • Fasciitis, Necrotizing / therapy*
  • Hand / microbiology*
  • Humans
  • Soft Tissue Infections / diagnosis*
  • Soft Tissue Infections / microbiology
  • Soft Tissue Infections / therapy*
  • Wrist / microbiology*