Correlation of the laboratory risk indicators for necrotizing fasciitis (LRINEC) score with the clinical features and surgical management of necrotizing soft tissue infections

Abstract

Background: Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a devastating soft tissue infection associated with potentially poor outcomes. The Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotizing Fasciitis (LRINEC) score has been introduced as a diagnostic tool for NF. We aimed to correlate the clinical features of NSTI with the LRINEC score, its application to distinguish Necrotizing Fasciitis (NF) from other non NSTI and its utility in early surgical management of NSTI.Methods: Patients were evaluated for various symptoms and signs at the time of admission and certain laboratory parameters were assessed. LRINEC score was then calculated. Correlation of the management and severity of infections with respective LRINEC score was then found out.Results: LRINEC score for predicting conservative management of NSTI has a sensitivity of 81.8% and specificity of 98% while for predicting amputation and mortality shows a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 84.5%.Conclusions: The LRINEC score is a robust score capable of detecting even clinically early cases of necrotizing fasciitis.