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Passemard L, Hida S, Barrat A, Sakka L, Barthélémy I, Dang NP. Eyelid and periorbital necrotizing fasciitis, a severe preseptal infection, a systemic review of the literature and anatomical illustrations. JOURNAL OF STOMATOLOGY, ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY 2023:101498. [PMID: 37178871 DOI: 10.1016/j.jormas.2023.101498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
In necrotizing fasciitis, aggressive surgical debridement and broad-spectrum antibiotics are the cornerstone of treatment but cannot be proposed for the eyelid and periorbital area because of the risk of blindness, eyeball exposure and disfiguration. The aim of this review was to determine the most effective management of this severe infection while preserving eye function. A literature search of the PubMed, Cochrane Library, ScienceDirect and Embase databases was conducted for all articles published up to March 2022; 53 patients were included. Management was probabilistic, combining antibiotic therapy with skin (+/- orbicularis oculi muscle) debridement in 67.9 % of cases, and probabilistic antibiotic therapy alone in 16.9% of cases. Radical surgery with exenteration was performed in 11.1% of patients; 20.9% of patients had complete loss of vision, and 9.4% died of the disease. Aggressive debridement was rarely necessary possibly because of the anatomical particularities of this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Léa Passemard
- University Hospital of Clermont-Ferrand, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial surgery, F-63000, Clermont-Ferrand, France..
| | - Sarah Hida
- University Hospital of Clermont-Ferrand, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial surgery, F-63000, Clermont-Ferrand, France..
| | - Antoine Barrat
- University Hospital of Clermont-Ferrand, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial surgery, F-63000, Clermont-Ferrand, France..
| | - Laurent Sakka
- Laboratoire d'anatomie, Faculté de Médecine, Université d'Auvergne, 28, place Henri-Dunant, 63001 Clermont-Ferrand cedex 1, France..
| | - Isabelle Barthélémy
- University Hospital of Clermont-Ferrand, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial surgery, F-63000, Clermont-Ferrand, France.; UMR Inserm/UdA, U1107, Neuro-Dol, Trigeminal Pain and Migraine, Université d'Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, 63003, France..
| | - Nathalie Pham Dang
- University Hospital of Clermont-Ferrand, CHU Clermont-Ferrand, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial surgery, F-63000, Clermont-Ferrand, France.; UMR Inserm/UdA, U1107, Neuro-Dol, Trigeminal Pain and Migraine, Université d'Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, 63003, France..
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Wladis EJ. Periorbital Necrotizing Fasciitis. Surv Ophthalmol 2022; 67:1547-1552. [DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2022.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Saldana M, Gupta D, Khandwala M, Weir R, Beigi B. Periorbital Necrotizing Fasciitis: Outcomes Using a CT-Guided Surgical Debridement Approach. Eur J Ophthalmol 2018; 20:209-14. [DOI: 10.1177/112067211002000129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Purpose The surgical management of necrotizing fasciitis usually involves early radical/wide and aggressive debridement of involved areas. We describe 5 cases of periorbital necrotizing fasciitis (NF), managed using a computed tomographic (CT)-guided approach to surgical debridement. Methods Retrospective case series review. Results Five patients (4 female, 1 male; age range 39–81) were treated for periorbital NF. The diagnosis was confirmed in all cases with blood cultures and wound swabs. All patients were managed medically by a surviving sepsis regimen. CT scans confirmed suprafascial infection and excluded orbital cellulitis. Four patients had minimal surgical debridement to the surface muscle. All patients survived. Four out of 5 patients underwent delayed reconstruction. Conclusions Periorbital NF behaves differently from NF of other areas. CT-guided surgical debridement of the superficial muscle maximizes preservation of healthy tissue and facilitates reconstruction. Delayed reconstruction allows fibrosis to settle and good cosmetic and functional results are possible. However, NF remains potentially lethal and close observation and a flexible management plan are required.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Deepak Gupta
- Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, Norwich - UK
| | | | - Robert Weir
- Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, Norwich - UK
| | - Bijan Beigi
- Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital, Norwich - UK
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Are there any reasons to change our behavior in necrotizing fasciitis with the advent of new antibiotics? Curr Opin Infect Dis 2018; 30:172-179. [PMID: 28134677 DOI: 10.1097/qco.0000000000000359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The treatment of necrotizing fasciitis requires a multifaceted approach, consisting of surgical source control with immediate surgical debridement along with life support, clinical monitoring, and antimicrobial therapy. Many drugs are now available for the treatment of this life-threatening infectious disease, and the purpose of this review is to provide the reader with an updated overview of the newest therapeutic options. RECENT FINDINGS Because most necrotizing soft tissue infections are polymicrobial, broad-spectrum coverage is advisable. Acceptable monotherapy regimens include piperacillin-tazobactam or a carbapenem. However, drugs such as ceftolozane-tazobactam, ceftazidime-avibactam in association with an antianaerobic agent (metronidazole or clindamycin) are currently available as valuable alternatives. The new cephalosporins active against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), ceftaroline, and ceftobiprole share similar antibacterial activity against Gram-positive cocci, and they might be considered as an alternative to nonbetalactam anti-MRSA agents for necrotizing fasciitis management. Two new long-acting lypoglycopeptides - oritavancin and dalbavancin - share the indications for acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections and had similar activity against Gram-positive cocci including MRSA and streptococci. SUMMARY Carbapenem-sparing agents are particularly suitable for antimicrobial stewardship strategy. The new long-acting lypoglycopeptides are very effective in treating necrotizing fasciitis and are uttermost attractive for patients requiring short hospital stays and early discharge.
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Abstract
Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a severe infection characterized by rapidly progressing necrotizing infection of the superficial fascia with secondary necrosis of the overlying skin. Periorbital NF is uncommon because of the excellent blood supply to that area; nevertheless, it can sometimes result in death. The aim of this study is to present a systematic review and analyse the factors associated with death. We carried out a systematic literature review of all cases of periorbital NF published in the English language over the past 20 years and present the predisposing conditions, triggering factors, organisms causing NF, presence or absence of toxic shock and the prognosis. The significance of various risk factors leading to death was analysed. We traced a total of 94 patients with periorbital NF from 61 reports. There were no triggering incidents in 25 cases (26.6%). In 48 cases (51.1%), the organism responsible for NF was Group A beta haemolytic Streptococcus. Toxic shock occurred in 29 (30.9%) cases, and loss of vision in 13 (13.8%). Surgical debridement was carried out in 80 (85.1%) cases. There were eight cases (8.5%) of death. This seems to be less than previously reported figures. Toxic shock syndrome (p < 0.001), type 1 infections (p = 0.018), facial involvement (p = 0.032) and blindness because of periorbital NF (p = 0.035) were significantly associated with mortality. Mortality caused by NF arising from the periorbital area seems to be on the decline. However, it is important to recognize it early and institute treatment to avoid toxic shock that leads to death. Type 1 infections, although rare in periorbital area, are not associated with immunocompromised status and nevertheless carry a significant risk of mortality. Major morbidity is loss of vision followed by soft-tissue defects affecting function and cosmesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shantha Amrith
- Department of Ophthalmology, National University Health System, Singapore City, SingaporeDepartment of Ophthalmology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal University, Manipal, IndiaSingapore Eye Research Institute, Singapore National Eye Center, Singapore City, Singapore
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Mutamba A, Verity DH, Rose GE. 'Stalled' periocular necrotising fasciitis: early effective treatment or host genetic determinants? Eye (Lond) 2013; 27:432-7. [PMID: 23412558 DOI: 10.1038/eye.2012.285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Necrotising fasciitis (NF) is a devastating disease with considerable mortality and morbidity, and early aggressive surgical debridement of devitalised necrotic tissues has traditionally been advocated. METHODS We describe three patients who were referred from other units several weeks after developing periocular necrotising fasciitis; in all the three, the disease had been managed medically without surgical debridement, with apparent 'stalling' of the inflammatory process despite persistent necrotic periocular tissue. RESULTS Following 'elective debridement' of the devitalised tissues and reconstruction with local flaps, all achieved a satisfactory aesthetic result. DISCUSSION The role of host genetic determinants, polarised cytokine responses, and early, effective medical treatment in patients with atypical 'disease phenotypes' in NF are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Mutamba
- Orbital Unit, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, UK
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Group a streptococcus necrotizing fasciitis of the eyelid: a case report of good outcome with medical management. Ophthalmic Plast Reconstr Surg 2011; 28:e13-5. [PMID: 21415799 DOI: 10.1097/iop.0b013e31821282ee] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Periorbital necrotizing fasciitis is a potentially fatal disease, and early surgical debridement has been advocated to minimize the risk of blindness and mortality. The authors report a case of an 18-year-old man who presented with isolated, unilateral group A Streptococcus eyelid necrotizing fasciitis. The patient responded to intravenous antibiotics alone, and no surgical debridement was needed. Skin reconstructive surgery was carried out after resolution of the acute infection. The clinical and cosmetic outcome was good. This case report supports limited but growing evidence that potentially disfiguring surgical debridement may be avoided in selected cases of eyelid necrotizing fasciitis and that uncomplicated periorbital necrotizing fasciitis can be treated conservatively with good results.
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Matar VW, Betz P. [Periorbital necrotizing fasciitis: a complication of a dacryocystorhinostomy]. J Fr Ophtalmol 2011; 34:258.e1-5. [PMID: 21411184 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfo.2010.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2010] [Revised: 09/26/2010] [Accepted: 10/07/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
We report a rare case of periorbital necrotizing fasciitis following a dacryocystorhinostomy procedure. We describe the common features of this rare infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissues and discuss the different management strategies as well as the controversial role of anti-inflammatory medication in treating this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- V W Matar
- Service d'ophtalmologie, centre hospitalier régional de la Citadelle, 1, boulevard du 12(e) de Ligne, 4000 Liège, Belgique.
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Eter EG, Khazzaka A, Mneimneh W, Karam-Sarkis D, Haddad A, Sarkis R. Does diclofenac increase the risk of cervical necrotizing fasciitis in a rat model? Int J Exp Pathol 2009; 90:58-65. [PMID: 19200252 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2613.2008.00594.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are known for aggravating in vitro infections and were reported in many cases of cervical necrotizing fasciitis (CNF). We developed a rat model of CNF, mimicking as closely as possible the human-CNF, to study the effect of a NSAIDs, diclofenac, as a promoting factor. Twenty rats were injected bilaterally in the neck with peptostreptococcus and with a fresh saliva specimen for another 20 rats. Half of each group was given an intramuscular injection of 4 mg/kg diclofenac at the time of inoculation and 24 h later, and the other half saline injections; rats were killed at day 7 and clinical, bacterial and histological studies were performed to assess the infectious process and the incidence of CNF. No statistically significant difference was found between groups treated with diclofenac vs. the saline injection groups. However a significant correlation was noted between clinical observation, bacterial density and histological signs of inflammation. CNF has a high mortality rate and the use of NSAIDs in conditions potentially leading to CNF is very common. However, our rat model does not support the hypothesis of a promoting role of diclofenac which was occasionally suggested in the medical literature. This study suggests that diclofenac does not seem to increase the risk of occurrence of CNF. Nonetheless, NSAIDs can mask inflammatory signs of an already spreading CNF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elie G Eter
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Hotel Dieu de France Hospital, Beirut, Lebanon
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Schurr C, Burghartz M, Miethke T, Kesting M, Hoang N, Staudenmaier R. Management of facial necrotizing fasciitis. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2008; 266:325-31. [PMID: 19043730 DOI: 10.1007/s00405-008-0870-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2008] [Accepted: 11/10/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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 ss-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 uncommon disease generally occurs in the lower extremities and trunk, and only rarely affects the head and neck region. When located in the face necrotizing fasciitis is associated with severe cosmetic and functional restrictions due to the invasive infection and often to the necessary surgical treatment. Generally surgical intervention cannot be performed in the face as aggressively as in the extremities and trunk, since a lot of vital structures are found in a relatively small area. In the following article, we present the successful diagnostic and therapeutic management of an isolated facial necrotizing fasciitis as a consequence of a nasal bone fracture with a minor dermal cut.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Schurr
- Klinik für Hals-Nasen-Ohren-Heilkunde, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany.
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Barry JS, Burge JA, Byles DB, Morgan MS. Severe invasive beta haemolytic group A streptococcal cellulitis and eyelid necrosis treated with linezolid. Br J Ophthalmol 2006; 90:1204. [PMID: 16929067 PMCID: PMC1857384 DOI: 10.1136/bjo.2006.090779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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12
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Balbierz JM, Ellis K. Streptococcal infection and necrotizing fasciitis—implications for rehabilitation: a report of 5 cases and review of the literature. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2004; 85:1205-9. [PMID: 15241775 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2003.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Five cases are presented of patients who were diagnosed with necrotizing fasciitis secondary to (1) hip disarticulation (in a paraplegic patient); (2) tooth abscess with extensive neck dissection, complicated by sepsis and hypotension with resultant dysphagia and ischemic encephalopathy; (3) below-knee amputation, anoxia, and severe debility; (4) emergent above-knee amputation; and (5) percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy placement. The latter patient developed abdominal and chest wall necrotizing fasciitis that required skin grafting. Four patients were treated in an acute rehabilitation setting and returned home, and the fifth was rehabilitated in a subacute facility. This report emphasizes the importance of carefully monitoring rehabilitation patients, especially those with impaired sensation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet M Balbierz
- Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Utah School of Medicine, 30 N 1900 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84132-2119, USA.
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Luksich JA, Holds JB, Hartstein ME. Conservative management of necrotizing fasciitis of the eyelids. Ophthalmology 2002; 109:2118-22. [PMID: 12414425 DOI: 10.1016/s0161-6420(02)01257-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the management of patients with necrotizing fasciitis of the eyelids. DESIGN Retrospective, noncomparative interventional case series. PARTICIPANTS Seven patients with necrotizing fasciitis limited to the eyelids. METHODS Retrospective review of the charts and photographs of seven patients with necrotizing fasciitis limited to the eyelids. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Eyelid function and appearance, mortality, and morbidity. RESULTS Seven of seven patients had good eyelid function and adequate appearance without reconstruction after healing. No deaths occurred. CONCLUSIONS Eyelid necrosis due to necrotizing fasciitis can be a devastating condition. The morbidity and mortality of selected cases are reduced with prompt and appropriate antimicrobial therapy and nonaggressive debridement of necrotic tissue after autodemarcation of the necrotic zone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason A Luksich
- Saint Louis University Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63104, USA
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Azkarate Ayerdi B, Wichmann De Miguel MAV, Arruabarrena Echeverria I, Martín Rodríguez FJ, Izquierdo Elena JM, Rodríguez Arrondo F. [Necrotizing fascitis due to Streptococcus pyogenes in two previously healthy patients]. Enferm Infecc Microbiol Clin 2002; 20:173-5. [PMID: 11996705 DOI: 10.1016/s0213-005x(02)72782-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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15
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Réflexions sur la fasciite nécrosante. Med Mal Infect 1998. [DOI: 10.1016/s0399-077x(98)80136-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Raboso E, Llavero MT, Rosell A, Martinez-Vidal A. Craniofacial necrotizing fasciitis secondary to sinusitis. J Laryngol Otol 1998; 112:371-2. [PMID: 9659501 DOI: 10.1017/s0022215100140496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Necrotizing fasciitis is a rare condition which usually affects the trunk, perineum and limbs. Head and neck involvement is very uncommon and in most cases it is secondary to orbital or dental infection. We report a case of craniofacial necrotizing fasciitis (CNF) secondary to a maxillary sinusitis. The patient was treated intensively with antibiotics, surgical procedures and life-support measures. Despite all efforts, the patient died one week after admission. This case highlights early diagnosis and aggressive management as decisive factors for the outcome of the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Raboso
- ENT Department, Hospital Ramon y Cajal, Madrid, Spain.
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Mortimore S, Thorp M. Cervical necrotizing fasciitis and radiotherapy: a report of two cases. J Laryngol Otol 1998; 112:298-300. [PMID: 9624386 DOI: 10.1017/s0022215100158414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Two cases of cervical necrotizing fasciitis are presented. Both are unusual in that they had had radiotherapy for head and neck malignancy six and 14 years previously with no evidence of tumour recurrence. One case of necrotizing fasciitis has previously been cited in the literature associated with radiotherapy (Krespi et al., 1981). The two cases are discussed along with a review of the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Mortimore
- Department of Otolaryngology, Groote Schuur Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
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Abstract
Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a rapidly progressive soft tissue infection with high morbidity and mortality rates. Its occurrence in the head and neck region is uncommon, the majority of reported cases being limited to involvement of the neck, usually from infections of dental or pharyngeal origin. Involvement of the face from NF is rare; only 35 such cases have been reported in the literature since 1960. It is not only associated with a high mortality but can also result in severe disfigurement of the face, posing challenging reconstructive problems. Successful management of facial NF requires early diagnosis, prompt institution of broad spectrum antibiotics, aggressive surgical debridement to control the infection, and reconstruction of the resultant soft tissue defects. This report describes four additional cases of facial necrotizing fasciitis. One of the four patients died as a result of sepsis and multi-organ system failure. Two of the three surviving patients had significant facial disfigurement. A comprehensive review of the facial NF cases reported in the literature is also provided. Based on our experience with facial NF and the results of all previous case reports, the clinical manifestations, pathogenesis, and management of this disease are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Shindo
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA
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19
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Affiliation(s)
- J S Isenberg
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, Oklahoma City, USA
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Abstract
Necrotizing fasciitis is an uncommon soft-tissue infection, usually caused by toxin-producing, virulent bacteria, which is characterized by widespread fascial necrosis with relative sparing of skin and underlying muscle. It is accompanied by local pain, fever, and systemic toxicity and is often fatal unless promptly recognized and aggressively treated. The disease occurs more frequently in diabetics, alcoholics, immunosuppressed patients, i.v. drug users, and patients with peripheral vascular disease, although it also occurs in young, previously healthy individuals. Although it can occur in any region of the body, the abdominal wall, perineum, and extremities are the most common sites of infection. Introduction of the pathogen into the subcutaneous space occurs via disruption of the overlying skin or by hematogenous spread from a distant site of infection. Polymicrobial necrotizing fasciitis is usually caused by enteric pathogens, whereas monomicrobial necrotizing fasciitis is usually due to skin flora. Tissue damage and systemic toxicity are believed to result from the release of endogenous cytokines and bacterial toxins. Due to the paucity of skin findings early in the disease, diagnosis is often extremely difficult and relies on a high index of suspicion. Definitive diagnosis is made at surgery by demonstration of a lack of resistance of normally adherent fascia to blunt dissection. Treatment modalities include surgery, antibiotics, supportive care, and hyperbaric oxygen. Early and adequate surgical debridement and fasciotomy have been associated with improved survival. Initial antibiotic therapy should include broad aerobic and anaerobic coverage. If available, hyperbaric oxygen therapy should be considered, although to our knowledge, there are no prospective, randomized clinical trials to support this. Mortality rates are as high as 76%. Delays in diagnosis and/or treatment correlate with poor outcome, with the cause of death being overwhelming sepsis syndrome and/or multiple organ system failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- R J Green
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, CA 94305-5236, USA
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Henrich DE, Smith TL, Mukherji S, Drake AF. Pediatric craniocervical necrotizing fasciitis. Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol 1996; 105:72-4. [PMID: 8546431 DOI: 10.1177/000348949610500114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- D E Henrich
- Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, USA
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Banerjee AR, Murty GE, Moir AA. Cervical necrotizing fasciitis: a distinct clinicopathological entity? J Laryngol Otol 1996; 110:81-6. [PMID: 8745791 DOI: 10.1017/s0022215100132797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Necrotizing fasciitis of the head and neck has previously been classified as a homogeneous group. We present two cases of necrotizing fasciitis confined to the neck and demonstrate with a review of the literature that cervical necrotizing fasciitis and craniofacial necrotizing fasciitis are two distinct clinicopathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- A R Banerjee
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Leicester Royal Infirmary, UK
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23
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Shayegani A, MacFarlane D, Kazim M, Grossman ME. Streptococcal gangrene of the eyelids and orbit. Am J Ophthalmol 1995; 120:784-92. [PMID: 8540552 DOI: 10.1016/s0002-9394(14)72732-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Streptococcal gangrene, also termed streptococcal necrotizing fasciitis, is resurgent but remains exceedingly rare. Ophthalmologists and dermatologists must be aware of streptococcal gangrene, as eyelids are the most commonly affected area of the head and neck. METHODS We studied two cases of streptococcal gangrene of the orbit with clinical manifestations indistinguishable from common nonnecrotizing orbital cellulitis. RESULTS Infection progressed with dramatic rapidity to produce eyelid necrosis, respiratory failure, sepsis, and severe permanent visual loss caused by ophthalmic artery occlusions. Histopathologic analysis disclosed vascular thrombosis, necrosis, acute inflammation, and the presence of gram-positive cocci. Cultures grew heavy group A beta hemolytic Streptococcus. The first patient was infected with M type 1 carrying exotoxins A and B. The second patient was also infected with Streptococcus carrying exotoxin A. CONCLUSION Early diagnosis of this life-threatening infection is of paramount importance because survival may depend on early surgical debridement.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Shayegani
- Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
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Skorina J, Kaufman D. Necrotizing Fasciitis Originating from Pinna Perichondritis. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 1995; 113:467-73. [PMID: 7567023 DOI: 10.1016/s0194-59989570087-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
NF is a potentially lethal infectious process usually found in the abdomen, perineum, or extremities. In the head and neck it usually starts from a dental infection but can be initiated from any source. One of the more serious sequelae is extension of the infection down the deep fascial planes of the neck leading to mediastinitis; this is associated with a higher mortality rate. The presence of an associated immunocompromising disease, such as diabetes, has been said to predispose an individual to NF, and the mortality rate has been shown to be higher (although perhaps not significantly so). When first described, NF was thought to be caused only by beta-hemolytic Staphylococcus. Now it known to be a polymicrobial infection with anaerobes and facultative anaerobes found most frequently. Treatment involves broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics as soon as possible, narrowing the coverage as the results of the gram stain and cultures become available. The importance of aggressive, prompt surgical management cannot be overemphasized in the treatment of NF. Once the diagnosis of NF is strongly suspected, debridement of the affected areas must be accomplished as soon as possible. Despite the advances in the recognition and treatment of NF, there is still significant morbidity and mortality associated with this disease. Continued vigilance must be practiced if the survival rate is to continue to increase.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Skorina
- Department of Otolaryngology, New York University School of Medicine, NY 10016, USA
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Henrich DE, Smith TL, Shockley WW. Fatal craniocervical necrotizing fasciitis in an immunocompetent patient: a case report and literature review. Head Neck 1995; 17:351-7. [PMID: 7672978 DOI: 10.1002/hed.2880170414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Craniocervical necrotizing fasciitis (CCNF) is a rapidly progressive, severe bacterial infection of the superficial fascial planes of the head and neck. Group A beta-hemolytic Streptococcus, staphylococcus aureus, and obligate anaerobic bacteria are common pathogens. The disease usually results from a dental source or facial trauma. Extensive fascial necrosis and severe systemic toxicity are common manifestations of CCNF. Recently the lay press has referred to necrotizing fasciitis in several articles about "flesh eating" bacteria, which have resulted in several deaths. METHODS We report the first case of a fatality in an otherwise immunocompetent patient. The patient was a 66-year-old black man with no identifiable source of infection and no history or evidence of immunocompromising disorders. RESULTS Despite aggressive surgical debridement and broad-spectrum antibiotic coverage, he died 30 hours after admission from multisystem organ failure secondary to overwhelming sepsis. CONCLUSION Treatment consists of early recognition of CCNF combined with aggressive surgical debridement and drainage of the involved necrotic fascia and tissue along with broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotic coverage. Although 11 other fatal cases of CCNF have been previously reported, all had an underlying medical problem which created an immunocompromised state, usually diabetes mellitus or chronic alcoholism. We present a case report and literature review along with a discussion of the related anatomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- D E Henrich
- Division of Otolaryngology/Head & Neck Surgery, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill 27599-7070, USA
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