Cervical necrotizing fasciitis: case series and review of literature.

INTRODUCTION: Cervical necrotizing fasciitis is a fatal and rapid multi- bacteria infection causing extensive necrosis of the subcutaneous tissues and fascial planes with resultant skin gangrene and associated systemic manifestation. The aim of the present study is to report four cases of cervical necrotizing fascitis highlighting their source.

METHOD: The case notes of the patients were retrieved and reviewed, literature search was done using Medline, journals available and various texts.

RESULTS: Most often the cause of cervical necrotizing fascitis is of dental origin. The diagnosis depends mainly on clinical features and a high index of suspicion because the clinical features maybe innocuous at the early stage.

CONCLUSION: Despite aggressive management with liberal wound debridement, intravenous antibiotics, and nutritional support, the mortality was still high due to late presentation.