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Necrotizing fasciitis of the neck

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 June 2007

H. S. Kaddour
Affiliation:
Huddersfield
G. J. C. Smelt*
Affiliation:
Huddersfield
*
Consultant ENT Surgeon, Huddersfield Royal Infirmary, Acre Street, Lindley, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire.

Abstract

Necrotizing fascitis (N.F.) is a rare but serious infection of subcutaneous tissues and deep fascia with resulting skin gangrene and septicaemia. It is due to mixed anaerobic and aerobic organisms. It has been reported under a variety of synonyms.

We describe two cases of necrotizing fasciitis of the neck probably secondary to chronic dental infection, one was diagnosed early and the other late with very different outcomes. We highlight the importance of early and aggressive surgical treatment to complement parenteral antibiotics covering both aerobic and anaerobic organisms.

Type
Clinical Records
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 1992

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