Necrotizing fasciitis of the head and neck: A report of two patients and review

BACKGROUND: Necrotizing fasciitis is a disfiguring condition that can be fatal. The head and neck region is rarely affected. However, when involved, the functional and cosmetic sequelae can be considerable. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We present two case histories, discuss salient diagnostic points, treatment, and review published data on this topic. RESULTS: With a timely diagnosis we were able to diagnose and appropriately treat these patients. CONCLUSIONS: Necrotizing fasciitis is a disfiguring condition that can be fatal if not diagnosed in a timely fashion. Diagnosis and treatment require a high index of suspicion, immediate operative intervention, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and appropriate supportive care.