Soft Tissue Case 1 Diagnosis

Subcutaneous emphysema from the gas-forming organisms is the classic radiographic finding, but is not universal.

If the diagnosis is still suspected, CT scanning will demonstrate asymmetric fascial thickening and gas in the tissues while MRI T1 images will show a lack of contrast enhancement in areas of fascial necrosis.

Gram stains and biopsy are important diagnostic tools, but have limited utility in the ED.