AUSTIN, Texas — Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have developed a novel compound that effectively clears bacterial infections in mice, including those that can result in rare but potentially fatal “flesh-eating” illnesses.
The potential drug could be the first of an entirely new class of antibiotics that may offer more effective treatments against bacteria that can’t be tamed easily with current antibiotics. While animal trials are showing effectiveness, the drug still needs to be tested in humans. The research was published Aug. 2 in Science Advances.
Any weapon in the fight against bacteria that eats through human skin would be welcomed. The warm water of the Gulf of Mexico is a breeding ground for Vibrio bacteria that can invade an open scratch or cut on the surface of human skin and lead to a potentially fatal illness.
So far this year, Galveston County’s Health Department has reported 11 cases of Vibrio infections. Last year, only two cases were reported.
While commonly referred to as “flesh-eating bacteria”, the bacteria is also known by its medical name, necrotizing fasciitis. It is a severe, rapidly progressing infection that destroys skin, fat and other soft tissues. It is commonly caused by bacteria such as Group A Streptococcus (GAS), often referred to as "strep." Though rare, the condition can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical intervention.
Certain factors increase the risk of developing necrotizing fasciitis. Individuals with compromised immune systems, chronic illnesses like diabetes, recent surgical wounds or trauma are particularly vulnerable.
Additionally, people with open wounds or those who have recently undergone surgical procedures are at higher risk, as these conditions provide a potential entry point for bacteria.