Download Cervical Necrotizing Fasciitis: report of clinical cases

Cervical Necrotizing Fasciitis: report of clinical cases
Donati D.1, Lorenzini G.1, Brindisi L.2, Panarese A.2, Di Vece L.1, Picciotti M.1, Viviano F.1, Viviano M.1
1
Department of Odontostomatological and Oftalmological Sciences University of Siena (Italy)
2
Department of Otorhinolaringologic Sciences University of Siena (Italy)
Abstract
Introduction: Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a rare soft tissue infection, usually polymicrobial, which causes
necrosis of the fascia and subcutaneous tissue disorders not involving the skin. It is characterized by rapid
progression and destruction of the soft tissues of proportion to signs and clinical symptoms. The
predisposing factors include diabetes mellitus, steroid therapy, chronic renal failure, cirrhosis, obesity,
cancer, hypothyroidism, atherosclerosis, alcoholism, drug abuse, age and state of malnutrition. The states of
immunosuppression plays an important role in determining the initiation, progression, and disease outcomes.
A prompt diagnosis and immediate aggressive surgical debridement of all compromised tissues are critical to
reducing morbidity and mortality in this type of infection
Materials and Methods: The study, unicentric and retrospective, was conducted at the Hospital "Santa
Maria alle Scotte" in Siena (Italy). WE report patients'age, sex, medical status, origin of infection,
bacteriology, surgical interventions, complications, survival, and other clinical parameters.
Results and Conclusions: The treatment of NF may be challenging and the keys to successful management
appear to provide for the early detection of infection, high doses of appropriate antimicrobial therapy, and
surgical intervention with radical debridement of necrotic tissue. Surgery remain the mainstay of treatment
for NF.