Cervical necrotizing fasciitis of odontogenic origin: a case report and review of 12 cases.

PURPOSE: This article reviews the demographics, presentation, cause, clinical findings, and treatment of 12 cases of cervical necrotizing fasciitis of odontogenic origin.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of 12 cases treated between 1987 and 1997 was done.

RESULTS

Most cases resulted from an abscessed mandibular molar. The most common significant medical conditions in the patient's history were diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and substance abuse. All patients were treated surgically within 24 hours of admission. Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) was used as adjunctive treatment in all cases. The average length of hospital stay was 31 days. All patients recovered.

CONCLUSION

Early surgical intervention and the use of HBO decreases morbidity and improves the clinical outcome.