Most cases cannot be prevented. Avoidance of intravenous drug use can prevent cases from this cause. Proper treatment of diabetes and high blood pressure and avoidance of smoking may prevent cases due to poor circulation.
Many cases are difficult to treat. Severe cases may result in death or loss of a limb. Chronic or repeated infections may occur. These may require multiple surgeries.
This condition is not contagious and generally poses no risk to others.