Abstract
Cervical necrotizing fasciitis is characterized by rapidly progressing necrosis of the superficial layer of the cervical fascia, the loose connective tissue in the neck. We describe a case of cervical necrotizing fasciitis in a 50-year-old man with an initial diagnosis of bilateral peritonsillar abscess and upper neck cellulitis. After treatment with antibiotics he developed Lemierre Syndrome, for which he underwent surgical treatment on the fifth day of illness. Necrotizing fasciitis was diagnosed intraoperatively, and debridement and tracheotomy were performed. A total of four operations were performed, accompanied by negative-pressure wound therapy. To restore swallowing and neck movement, rehabilitation was begun soon after the first procedure. Early diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis requires physician awareness of the possibility of this condition and careful assessment of tissues with potential necrosis. To reduce the risks of postoperative sequelae, such as swallowing disorders and limitations in neck mobility, postoperative rehabilitation should be begun before development of scar tissue or contracture.
