[Etiologic evaluation and treatment progress in necrotizing fasciitis of the head and neck]

ABSTRACT

Necrotizing fasciitis is an overwhelming infection common to perineum, abdominal wall, and extremities. It is a surgical emergency related to a high mortality rate that is more often seen in elderly and immunocompromised patients. Necrotizing fasciitis occurs uncommonly in the head and neck region. A retrospective study conducted on fasciitis necrotizing patients that were treated at Ghaem hospital since 2002-2005. Over a 4-year period, 4 cases of necrotizing fasciitis of the head and neck region collected at Ghaem hospital. The demographic, predisposing factors, clinical presentation and management were analyzed. The most common associated systemic disease was diabetes. Local swelling and erythematous changes was the most common sign. The cornerstones of proper management include early diagnosis, aggressive surgical debridement, broad-spectrum antibiotics and intensive supportive care. Necrotizing fasciitis mostly occurs in old patients with systemic disease specially diabetes mellitus which the common cause was dental infection