Retrospective Case Series Analysis of Management and Outcomes in Orocervical Necrotizing Fasciitis Secondary to Deep Neck Abscesses
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Local wound healing may be complicated by hematoma, hemorrhage, or pharyngocutaneous fistula (Fig. 3).Due to its rapid progression and high mortality, early diagnosis and prompt intervention are critical (Fig. 4). Materials a n d MethodsWe conducted a retrospective study (IEC approval (BMCRI/ EC/24/2025) from Bangalore Medical College and Research introduction Orocervical necrotizing fasciitis (OCNF) is a severe and potentially life-threatening form of deep neck space infections, most often polymicrobial and frequently involving anaerobes.1 These organisms thrive in oxygen-deprived environments, invading deep fascial and muscular planes where oxygen tension is low (Fig. 1).The disease often begins as cellulitis, presenting with erythema and edema, and progresses as continuous bacterial proliferation causes local ischemia and anaerobic overgrowth, eventually leading to gangrene.2 Bacterial metabolism may generate insoluble gases such as hydrogen, nitrogen, nitrous oxide, and hydrogen sulfide, producing subcutaneous emphysema.Odontogenic infections are the most common source, although other causes include tonsillitis, parotitis, mastoiditis, submandibular sialadenitis, lymphadenitis, infected thyroglossal cysts, and skin furuncles (Fig. 2).Orocervical necrotizing fasciitis (OCNF) carries a high risk of local and systemic complications, including airway obstruction, septic shock, mediastinitis, empyema, pneumonia, pleural or pericardial effusion, pericardial tamponade, acute renal failure, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), and vascular complications like carotid artery occlusion and jugular vein thrombosis (Lemierre's syndrome).1,2
Institution: Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute
Language: English
Subfield: Infectious Diseases
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W7169005288