Early Diagnosis and Surgical Management of Cervical Necrotizing Fasciitis Caused By Pseudomonas Aeruginosa: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Necrotizing Fasciitis also known as flesh eating disease, is a rare, dangerous, and life threatening infection that causes extensive necrosis of muscle, fascia, subcutaneous, dermis, and epidermis tissue along fascial planes with or without overlying cellulitis.

Case Report: We report a case of Necrotizing Fasciitis in a 37 year old woman who presented with swelling and neck pain for 7 days. Wound cultured showed Pseudomonas Aeruginosa. Pseudomonas aeruginosa as the culprit in Necrotizing Fasciitis of the neck region is rare and potentially fatal. Odontogenic infections are one of the reasons why this bacteria exists. Under general anesthesia, the patient underwent necrotomy debridement and tooth extraction. To date, the patient has undergone a second necrotomy debridement and closed with anterolateral thigh (ALT) free flap. The study highlights the importance of early intervention to improve outcomes.

Conclusion: Treatment for this patient was necrotomy debridement and ATL free flap closure. Early detection, necrotomy debridement, and broad-spectrum antibiotic can reduce mortality and morbidity in Necrotizing Fasciitis.

Keyword: Necrotizing Fasciitis, Necrotomy Debridement, Pseudomonas Aeruginosa