Necrotizing Fasciitis after the Camino de Santiago
Albéniz LUISA, González OLGA and Cereijo ANA CLARA
A 36-year-old woman with no significant past medical history presents after a prolonged walk with blistering and ulcerative lesions on the toes accompanied by swelling. She reports fever and generalized malaise. Suspected skin infection with systemic involvement; therefore, the patient is referred to the hospital serviceShe presents leukocytosis of 24,000 and a CRP of 10. Amoxicillin/clavulanate 875/125mg is initiated. Given progression to eschars and hypotension, septic shock is suspected and she is admitted to the ICU The skin becomes necrotic, and the CT scan shows significant fat stranding. Surgical debridement is performed under general anesthesia.This case is original because it describes necrotizing fasciitis following a long-distance walk along the Camino de Santiago in a previously healthy young adult, highlighting an unusual trigger and presentation of a rare but life threatening condition.The importance of early recognition of necrotizing fasciitis in otherwise healthy individuals after prolonged physical activity, prompt initiation of broad-spectrum antibiotics, and rapid surgical intervention to prevent progression to septic shock.Necrotizing fasciitis can affect healthy individuals after minor trauma. Clinical suspicion is key, supported by imaging when necessary. Prompt treatment significantly improves outcomes..Necrotizing fasciitis, although rare in healthy individuals, can occur after minor trauma from prolonged physical activity. Early recognition, timely antibiotic therapy, and urgent surgical debridement are essential to reduce morbidity and prevent fatal outcomes.
