Necrotizing fasciitis of odontogenic origin in Ibadan, Nigeria

We reviewed eight patients with necrotizing fasciitis of odontogenic origin . There were three women and five men, mean age 58 (range 46-72), and none had any associated medical condition such as diabetes. All cases had sympto ms of toothache for a mean duration of 34 days (range 26-42) before they so ught treatment. Infection originated in the molar teeth region, and initial ly presented as an odontogenic or periodontal abscess. The clinical feature s of necrotizing fasciitis became apparent only after the superficial fasci a had been invaded. The transient unusually reddish hue for a dark skin mig ht be explained by the fact the deep fascia and muscles were affected befor e the superficial fascia and skin. Necrosis of the skin began in the subman dibular region and progressed downwards. The necrotic area was less than th e extent of infection. Antimicrobial treatment, debridement, and fasciotomy improved healing. Delay before appropriate treatment had an adverse affect on outcome, and one patient died. (C) 2001 The British Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.