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

Purpose: This article reviews the demographics, presentation, cause, clinic al findings, and treatment of 12 cases of cervical necrotizing fasciitis of odontogenic origin. Patients and Methods: A retrospective chart review of 12 cases treated betw een 1987 and 1997 was done. Results: Most cases resulted from an abscessed mandibular molar. The most c ommon significant medical conditions in the patient's history were diabetes , hypertension, obesity, and substance abuse. All patients were treated sur gically within 24 hours of admission. Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) was used as a djunctive treatment in all cases. The average length of hospital stay was 3 1 days. All patients recovered. Conclusion: Early surgical intervention and the use of HBO decreases morbid ity and improves the clinical outcome.