Necrotizing fasciitis due to Vibrio parahaemolyticus.

A report of a fatal case of necrotizing fasciitis of the leg due to Vibrio parahaemolyticus infection. This organism frequently causes minor infections in seawater-exposed wounds. In this case the patient died due to fulminant sepsis caused by necrotizing fasciitis, despite surgical debridement. This case serves as a reminder for targeted antibiotic coverage for Vibrio in any serious saltwater-related infection, and as an illustration of the rapid and severe systemic toxicity associated with Vibrio parahaemolyticus necrotizing fasciitis, even in the setting of minor initial skin findings.