A Perfect Storm: Vibrio Necrotizing Fasciitis During Hurricane Season in Florida
Vibrio vulnificus resides in brackish waters following tropical storms, and infections carry a 50% mortality rate. We present a 75-year-old patient with hypotension, altered mental status, pain, swelling, and erythema of the left hand following boat-related trauma after Hurricane Ian. Given concern...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
American College of Physicians
2024-02-01
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| Series: | Annals of Internal Medicine: Clinical Cases |
| Online Access: | https://www.acpjournals.org/doi/10.7326/aimcc.2023.1204 |
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| Summary: | Vibrio vulnificus resides in brackish waters following tropical storms, and infections carry a 50% mortality rate. We present a 75-year-old patient with hypotension, altered mental status, pain, swelling, and erythema of the left hand following boat-related trauma after Hurricane Ian. Given concern for necrotizing fasciitis, intravenous antibiotics and fluids were initiated. Due to rapid progression, emergent surgery was required. Diagnostic testing confirmed V vulnificus. Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotizing Infection score was initially low-risk but increased to high-risk during hospitalization. During hurricane season, physicians must consider necrotizing fasciitis in hypotensive patients in the setting of wound exposure to seawater. |
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| ISSN: | 2767-7664 |