| ENCYCLOPEDIA INDEX |
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Injury Disease Nutrition Poison Symptoms Surgery Test |
| A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z |
Gas gangrene |
| Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention |
| Alternative Names: |
| Tissue infection - Clostridial; Gangrene - gas; Myonecrosis; Clostridial infection of tissues |
| Treatment: |
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Prompt surgical removal of dead, damaged, and infected tissue (debridement) is necessary. Amputation of an arm or leg may be indicated to control the spread of infection. Antibiotics, preferably penicillin-type, should be given. Initially, this is given intravenously (through a vein). Analgesics may be required to control pain. Hyperbaric oxygen has been tried with varying degrees of success. |
| Expectations (prognosis): |
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Gas gangrene is progressive and often lethal. Immediate medical attention is required. |
| Complications: |
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| Calling your health care provider: |
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Call your heath care provider if signs of infection occur at any time around a skin wound -- including pain, swelling, redness, drainage of pus or blood, fever, or similar symptoms. Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911), if symptoms indicate gas gangrene. This is an emergency condition requiring immediate medical attention! |
Gas gangrene |
Gas gangrene |
Antibodies |
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