Abstract

August 2007

Section 3 Breast, Skin, Soft Tissue, and Neck

Soft tissue infections are a diverse group of diseases that involve the skin and underlying subcutaneous tissue, fascia, or muscle. Such infections may be localized to a small area or may involve a large portion of the body. They may affect any part of the body, though the lower extremities, the perineum, and the abdominal wall are the most common sites of involvement. The symptoms and signs range from subtle or nonspecific indicators (e.g., pain, localized tenderness, and edema without fever) to obvious signals (e.g., necrosis, blistering, and crepitus associated with systemic toxicity). Clinical evaluation of soft tissue infection is discussed, and relevant investigative studies are reviewed. This chapter reviews diagnosis and management of the main soft tissue infections seen by surgeons, including both superficial infections (pyoderma, cellulitis) and deep necrotizing infections (necrotizing fasciitis, myonecrosis). Figures illustrate external manifestations of soft tissue infection and characteristic findings on diagnostic images. Tables list common pathogens, risk factors, and antibiotic agents and regimens. This chapter contains 59 references.

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