A Case of Necrotizing Fasciitis That Rapidly Progressed after a Minor Injury

Abstract

Necrotizing fasciitis is a rare, severe, life-threatening, and rapidly progressing infection characterized by necrosis of the fascia and subcutaneous tissue with systemic toxicity. In this study, we report a male patient with only controlled hypertension who was diagnosed with necrotizing fasciitis of his middle finger after sustaining a kitchen knife injury. Successful treatment involved amputating the third finger at the level of the medial proximal phalanx due to the severe and rapid progression of symptoms and the elevated risk of Vibrio spp. and Staphylococcus spp. causing necrotizing fasciitis, considering the patient's profession as a cook and his being immunocompetent. The patient was able to resume a working life after a short hospitalization without any severe complications. This is a reminder that even a minor injury can result in a life-threatening infection. Early surgical intervention saved the patient's life, eliminated the need for reoperation, and shortened the hospitalization.