Limb and digit loss In severe cases of meningococcal septicaemia, amputation of fingers and toes or limbs may be necessary. When septicaemia causes damage to blood vessels, blood leaks out, causing the rash that does not fade under pressure. The rash can quickly develop into larger patches which look like fresh bruising. The body will try and maintain blood supply to the vital organs (brain, heart, lungs, liver and kidneys), but the blood supply is reduced to the extremities, such as the hands and feet and the surface of the skin. Without blood and oxygen reaching the skin and underlying tissues, the skin and tissues begin to die, leading to skin damage, loss of fingers and toes or amputation of limbs. Treatment and recovery can be a long process, with multiple health professionals involved in all aspects of care and rehabilitation.