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Necrotizing fasciitis in a diabetic foot

Case contributed by Matt Skalski
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Foot swelling and fever.

Patient Data

Age: Adult
Gender: Male

There is extensive subcutaneous emphysema tracking along the facial planes throughout the foot and distal leg. Note that the proximal extent of the subcutaneous gas is not visualized. 

Case Discussion

This pattern of subcutaneous emphysema is characteristic of necrotizing faciitis. Make note that the proximal extent of the subcutaneous gas is not visualized, and more proximal imaging is needed to determine how axial this process has migrated. 

This case is courtesy of the LAC+USC radiology department

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