Necrotizing fasciitis.

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a rare but rapidly progressive and potentially fatal disease condition. It is characterized by progressive inflammation and extensive necrosis of the subcutaneous tissue and fascia, sparing the underlying tissue. It is a poly-bacterial infection and is associated with profound systemic toxicity, considerable morbidity and a high mortality rate. The outcome is influenced by early recognition and radical surgical debridement. We present a report of six cases of NF who presented to our surgical service within the past 5 years.