Patients with severe soft tissue infection appearing septic or toxic
Differentiating necrotizing fasciitis from simple cellulitis or abscess
Determining the need for immediate surgical consultation and debridement
CLINICAL INSIGHT
How it Works
Laboratory Variables & Points
CRP (mg/L): ≥ 150 (4 pts)
WBC (cell/mm³): 15–25 (1 pt) | > 25 (2 pts)
Hemoglobin (g/dL): 11–13.5 (1 pt) | < 11 (2 pts)
Sodium (mEq/L): < 135 (2 pts)
Creatinine (mg/dL): > 1.6 (2 pts)
Glucose (mg/dL): > 180 (1 pt)
Interpretation
Score ≤ 5
Score 6–7
Score ≥ 8
CLINICAL INSIGHT
Evidence Base
Validation
The LRINEC (Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotizing Fasciitis) score: a useful tool for distinguishing necrotizing fasciitis from other soft tissue infections.
Wong CH, et al.Crit Care Med.2004
LRINEC Score
LRINEC Score: Lab Risk Indicator for Necrotizing Fasciitis. A high score flags the need for urgent surgical intervention.
Laboratory Risk data
Necrotizing Fasciitis Risk
Low Risk (0/13)
Probability of necrotizing fasciitis < 50%. Clinical suspicion remains paramount.