Inflammation of a layer of fascia (fibrous connective tissue), causing pain and tenderness. Fasciitis is usually the result of straining or injuring the fascia surrounding a muscle; it most commonly affects the sole of the foot. Fasciitis may occur in people who suffer from ankylosing spondylitis (a rheumatic disorder affecting the spine) or Reiter’s syndrome (inflammation of the urethra, conjunctivitis, and arthritis).
Treatment involves resting the affected area and protecting it from pressure. In some cases, a local injection of a corticosteroid drug is given. If fasciitis is part of a widespread disorder of the joints, treatment of this condition will generally improve symptoms.
In?ammation of FASCIA. The most common site is the sole of the foot, where it is known as plantar fasciitis. It is characterised by gnawing pain. There is no speci?c treatment, but the condition usually clears up spontaneously – though over a considerable time.
n. inflammation of *fascia. It may result from bacterial infection or from a rheumatic disease, such as *reactive arthritis or ankylosing *spondylitis. See also necrotizing fasciitis; plantar fasciitis.
Also known as CELLULITIS. A potentially lethal infection caused by the gram-positive (see GRAM’S STAIN) bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes which has the property of producing dangerous exotoxins. The infection, which starts in the layer of FASCIA under the SKIN, may spread very rapidly, destroying tissue as it spreads. Urgent antibiotic treatment may check the infection, and surgery is sometimes required, but even with treatment patients may die (see STREPTOCOCCUS).... necrotising fasciitis
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