Non-odontogenic beta-hemolytic necrotizing fasciitis of the face.

A case report of a severe, rapidly aggressive necrotizing fasciitis of the facial tissues demonstrates the need to consider anatomic, systemic, and bacterial factors in evaluating this disease. Early diagnosis is critical for optimum management. Surgical debridement is the cornerstone of treatment and must be complemented with aggressive supportive therapy and antibiotics. In this instance of non-odontogenic beta-hemolytic necrotizing fasciitis of the face, aggressive care resulted in management of the disease process to a point where the patient's perioral wounds stabilized and were not of immediate significance to her death.