Necrotizing Fasciitis Associated with Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drug Use

Abstract

Objective:

To describe a case of necrotizing fasciitis (NF) that occurred following minor clean surgery in a seemingly otherwise healthy man who was taking over-the-counter (OTC) ibuprofen 200 mg and aspirin 325 mg before surgery.

Case Summary:

A 71-year-old white man underwent an uncomplicated laparoscopic cholecystectomy. His only medical disorder prior to surgery was osteoarthritis, for which he took OTC-strength ibuprofen; his only other regular medication was one aspirin 325-mg tablet daily for prevention of cardiac disease. Within 48 hours of the surgery, the onset of NF was apparent, and extensive tissue excision and debridement was required 1 week after the operation. All nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) were withheld. The patient survived a complicated clinical course over the next month.

Discussion:

A review of proposed risk factors for the development of NF in the patient indicated surgery and NSAID use. Analysis of the probability of NSAID use as a causative factor for the adverse reaction of NF suggests a possible role. This case suggests that NSAID use in lower OTC dosages may contribute to the onset or course of NF. The case report adds to existing literature suggesting an association between NSAID use and the development or course of NF.

Conclusions:

NSAIDs are widely used drugs, and any association as a causative or provocative factor for NF is a rare finding. However, practitioners should be aware of the proposed association.