4_max_4 OP t1_ism3m5n wrote on October 17, 2022 at 12:20 AM

Reply to comment by Nice_Sun_7018 in If strep A can produce necrotizing fasciitis, how come strep throat with any cuts on your mouth and tongue does not translate to it? Is it because the saliva has antibacterial qualities? by 4_max_4

Thank you. Yours is a great response as well. It adds so much perspective for us (without medical knowledge) who aren’t really exposed to cases and outcomes albeit reading online articles without much context. My question was indeed very ingenuous and honest after reading some nasty cases which required amputation. So, if other areas can be exposed to Strep A and develop necrotizing fasciitis, I wondered why wasn’t the mouth where the bacteria lives more prone to infections. I think I know have a clear understanding thanks to both of you.

Nice_Sun_7018 t1_ism5be8 wrote on October 17, 2022 at 12:33 AM

Even if getting nec fasc in the mouth is very rare, you can definitely get other, very serious infections. Tooth abscesses and poor dental hygiene in general can lead to infections that are life-threatening. So everyone: brush your teeth, go to the dentist, and wash your naughty bits!

For what it’s worth, I think your question was excellent and made logical sense to ask. :)

KamahlYrgybly t1_isowa3z wrote on October 17, 2022 at 4:36 PM

You are 100% correct. I am a doctor who works mostly in urgent care. One of the sickest people I have ever treated came in with a septic infection that had its origin in his teeth.

He had several surgeries over the next few days and spent 3 weeks in the intensive care unit. Survived, but it was really damned close.