title: Necrotizing Soft Tissue Infections: A Review.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Soft tissue infections are a common reason for general surgical consultation. Necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTI) are a rapidly progressive form of this infection that account for significant morbidity and many deaths.
  
  
  METHODS
  Review of relevant English-language publications.
  
  
  RESULTS
  There are approximately 500-1,500 cases of NSTI annually in the United States, although accurate estimates of their frequency are difficult to obtain. These infections may be polymicrobial or monomicrobial, and substantial regional heterogeneity exists regarding anatomic location and the involved organisms. Source control with early surgical debridement and targeted anti-microbial therapy are the mainstays of treatment.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Necrotizing soft tissue infections remain a common indication for general surgical consultation. Early diagnosis and prompt surgical treatment are essential for effective control.
authors.affiliation: The Hiram C. Polk, Jr. MD Department of Surgery and the Price Institute for Surgical Research, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky.
authors.forename: Brian G
authors.initials: BG
authors.lastname: Harbrecht
authors.affiliation: The Hiram C. Polk, Jr. MD Department of Surgery and the Price Institute for Surgical Research, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky.
authors.forename: Nick A
authors.initials: NA
authors.lastname: Nash
mesh_terms: D019115:Fasciitis, Necrotizing / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D018461:Soft Tissue Infections / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy