Life-threatening necrotizing fasciitis of the neck: an unusual consequence of a sore throat.
Ann R Coll Surg Engl 2004;
86:253-7. [PMID:
15239865 PMCID:
PMC1964218 DOI:
10.1308/147870804533]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Necrotizing fasciitis is life-threatening bacterial infection which spreads with frightening speed along the fascial planes resulting in extensive tissue necrosis and often death. The infection is caused by either Group A streptococci or a combination of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. Necrotizing fasciitis of the neck is rare and commonly has a dental origin.
CASE REPORT
Here we present a unique case of the condition that was preceded by a sore throat in a young immunocompetent woman. We also describe, for the first time, a successful outcome involving primary skin closure and daily irrigation of the wound with hydrogen peroxide.
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