skin disorders
Necrotizing Skin Infections
Diagnosis of Necrotizing Skin Infections
A doctor's evaluation Laboratory tests A doctor makes a diagnosis of necrotizing skin infection based on its appearance, particularly the presence of gas bubbles under the skin. X-rays may show gas under the skin as well. A blood test usually shows that the number of white blood cells has increased (leukocytosis). The specific bacteria causing the infection are identified by laboratory analysis of blood or tissue samples (culture). However, doctors begin treatment before they have the laboratory test results. 