Serious bacterial infections of the skin and soft tissues

Investigation of serious bacterial soft-tissue infections has been proceeding on a broad front: from clinical studies to molecular biological analysis. Characterization of microbial toxins that account for the characteristic pathobiology of clostridial infections has been proceeding on the molecular level. Magnetic resonance imaging is emerging as an important diagnostic adjunct in severe soft-tissue infections. Studies of the relatively new glycopeptide, teicoplanin, have progressed to comparative clinical trials, and the use of hyperbaric oxygen continues to undergo scrutiny. Despite these advances in knowledge, however, the treatment for these infections remains the same: early recognition, aggressive surgical excision and debridement of affected tissues, and early, empiric broad-spectrum antimicrobial therapy.