[Cervical necrotizing fasciitis].

Cervical necrotizing fasciitis is a rapidly progressive infection that involves the superficial and deep cervical fascia. Underestimation of this severe neck infection can delay diagnosis and treatment of this often fatal disease process. Three new cases, all with mediastinitis and fatal outcome are presented. Early diagnosis, aggressive surgical treatment and antibiotic therapy is essential if the high mortality rate is to be brought down in the future.