Table 1.

Necrotizing Fasciitis Diagnostic Criteria

1) Extensive necrosis of the superficial fascia with peripheral undermining of skin

2) Moderate to severe systemic toxicity

3) Absence of muscle involvement

4) No demonstration of clostridia in wound and blood cultures

5) Absence of major vascular occlusion

6) Intensive leukocytic infiltration, necrosis of subcutaneous tissue, and microvascular thrombosis on pathologic examination of debrided tissue