Wound Infections

The skin is the body's best defense against invading, disease-causing microorganisms. When the skin is broken by an abrasion, puncture wound, burn or incision, it is easier for microorganisms to enter and cause an infection. It is important that any type of wound infection be treated quickly.

Signs & Symptoms

• A wound infection may cause a rapid heart rate and a high body temperature. The area may also be painful, hot, red and have a yellowish-white fluid, or pus, coming from the wound.

Diagnosis

• It is important to correctly diagnose a wound infection. This may be done through blood tests, imaging tests, such as CT scan and MRI, or by performing a culture of the site.

Treatment

• Treatment ultimately depends on which bacterium is causing the infection. All wounds should be thoroughly cleaned and any pus should be drained. Antibiotics may be necessary.

Risk Factors

• Some things make people more susceptible to wound infections. Immune system disorders, cancer, diabetes and paralysis decrease the body's ability to heal itself. An injury caused by a foreign object, such as a nail or piece or glass, also raises the chance of infection.

Complications

• It is possible for wound infections to cause more widespread damage to the body. Infection may eventually cause the death of surrounding tissues, spread to the bloodstream or cause septic shock.