Surgical debridement of craniocervical necrotizing fasciitis: the window of opportunity.

Craniocervical necrotizing fasciitis (CCNF) has a potentially high morbidity and mortality. Late presentation, shock and disseminated intravascular coagulation are associated with a particularly poor prognosis. Early recognition and aggressive treatment is advised. A case report is presented of a late presentation of necrotizing fasciitis of the face, neck and anterior thoracic wall. Despite adverse prognostic indicators, surgical debridement was performed. Intensive medical treatment included continuous renal replacement therapy and intravenous immunoglobulin. Survival in this case illustrates that the window of opportunity for surgically treating CCNF extends to the advanced stages of the disease, albeit with increased morbidity.