Necrotizing Fasciitis of Face in Odontogenic Infection: A Rare Clinical Entity

Abstract

ABSTRACT Necrotizing fasciitis is a progressive, life-threatening, bacterial infection of the skin, the subcutaneous tissue and the underlying fascia, in most cases caused by β-hemolytic group A Streptococcus. Only early diagnosis and aggressive therapy including broad spectrum antibiotics and surgical intervention can avoid systemic toxicity with a high mortality rate. This disease is commonly known to occur in the lower extremities and trunk, and only rarely in the head and neck region, the face being rarest finding. When located in the face necrotizing fasciitis is associated with severe cosmetic and functional complication due to the invasive nature, infection and often due to the necessary surgical treatment. In the following article, we present the successful diagnosis and management of an isolated facial necrotizing fasciitis as a consequence of odontogenic infection. How to cite this article Vivek GK, Singh R, Veena GC, Arya P. Necrotizing Fasciitis of Face in Odontogenic Infection: A Rare Clinical Entity. World J Dent 2012;3(3):261-264.