myonecrosis /mī′ōnekrō″sis/ [Gk, mys + necrosis, death] , the death of muscle fibers. Progressive, or clostridial, myonecrosis is caused by the anaerobic bacteria of the genus Clostridium. Seen in deep wound infections, progressive myonecrosis is accompanied by pain, tenderness, a brown serous exudate, and a rapid accumulation of gas within the muscle tissue. The affected muscle turns a blackish green. Treatment includes thorough wound debridement, IV administration of penicillin, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy to destroy the anaerobe and to promote healing.
