Necrotizing fasciitis of the neck: a complication of dental extraction

A case of necrotizing fasciitis of the neck wih mediastinitis following a tooth extraction is reported. This is the second such case reported and the first patient to survive. Prompt treatment of infections of the deep cervical fascial spaces is emphasized. Although necrotizing fasciitis is recognized with increasing frequency, involvement of the neck is rare. This case of necrotizing fasciitis of the neck with mediastinitis occurring after dental extraction is reported to emphasize the need for aggressive surgical drainage.