Illustrated Health Encyclopedia
[an error occurred while processing this directive]
Ency. home > Disease > G > Gas gangrene
Gas gangrene See images
Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention
Tissue infection - Clostridial; Gangrene - gas; Myonecrosis; Clostridial infection of tissues
Treatment 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. Prognosis Gas gangrene is progressive and often lethal. Immediate medical attention is required. Complications Call Your Health Care Provider If: 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!
Ency. home > Disease > G > Gas gangrene
Tell us what you think about the site
Customer Care »
Vacation stops, manage subscriptions and more
AJC Services
Sections
Other Editions
Guides
Visitor Agreement | Privacy Statement | AdChoices
© 2012 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution