Craniocervical necrotizing fasciitis.

Craniocervical necrotizing fasciitis is a serious, life-threatening infection affecting fascial planes within the head and neck. Frequently the result of odontogenic origin, these polymicrobial infections, often involving group A beta hemolytic streptococcus acting in synergy with an anaerobe, can spread rapidly, causing significant morbidity and mortality, and must be diagnosed as early as possible. Treatment consists primarily of appropriate intravenous antibiotics and aggressive surgical debridement.