In NSTI, which antibiotic approach is essential alongside surgical debridement?

• A. Antifungal therapy
• B. Broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics
• C. Narrow-spectrum antibiotics
• D. Steroids

Answer: (B)

In NSTI, rapid, wide-ranging antimicrobial coverage is crucial because these infections are typically polymicrobial and progress quickly despite the body's defenses. Surgical debridement removes necrotic tissue and reduces bacterial load, but it must be paired with immediate broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics to cover both aerobes and anaerobes (including likely MRSA and gram-negative organisms). This empiric broad coverage is started right away and then tailored once culture results return. Narrow-spectrum antibiotics would miss the variety of pathogens present early on, and antifungal therapy is reserved for confirmed fungal involvement or high-risk situations. Steroids are not a standard part of NSTI treatment and can worsen infection.