Gangrene symptoms and prevention

Gangrene is the death of tissue, usually associated with the cessation of blood flow to the affected area.


CAUSE
Gas gangrene caused by infection by bacteria klostridium, which is an-aerobic akteri (grown in the absence of oxygen). During its growth, klostridium produce gas, so-called gas gangrene infection. Gas gangrene generally occurs at the injured body part or on the surgical wound. About 30% of cases occur spontaneously.

Klostridium bacteria produce a variety of toxins, 4 of which (alpha, beta, epsilon, iota) causes symptoms that can be fatal. In addition, tissue necrosis (necrosis), destruction of blood cells (hemolysis), vasoconstriction and vascular leakage. The toxin causes local tissue destruction and systemic symptoms.


SYMPTOMS
Inflammation in the infected area begins as tissue swelling or pale brownish-red color which is very painful. Gas in the tissue can be felt if the finger pressing the swollen area. Klostridium infection also causes the skin felt warm and swollen. Infection can spread under the skin, often forming bullae (large blisters filled with fluid). The liquid is brown and smelly.

gangrenous

Systemic symptoms appear early in infection, include fever, sweating and anxiety. If left untreated, may develop shock-like syndrome, ie decrease in blood pressure (hypotension), kidney failure, coma and death.


Diagnosis
Diagnosis is made on the terms of symptoms and physical examination (presence of air in the tissue can be felt / crackles). Radiographs may show gas under the skin. Scanning CT and MRI can help determine the amount of gas and the extent of tissue damage. Fluid from the wound cultured in the laboratory to strengthen the cause is klostridium.


TREATMENT
If you suspect a gangrene, broad spectrum antibiotics are given immediately, although klostridia only necessary to destroy penicillin. Removal of damaged tissue. Sometimes if the circulation is very poor, in part or whole limb must be amputated to prevent the spread of infection.

High-pressure oxygen therapy (hyperbaric oxygen) can also be used to treat extensive skin gangrene. Patients are placed in a room that contains a high-pressure oxygen, which will help kill klostridia.


PREVENTION
Clean the wound in the skin carefully. Be alert for signs of infection (redness, pain, discharge, swelling).