Periocular necrotizing fasciitis in an infant

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pediatric Surgery
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a severe soft tissue infection that can rapidly progress.
• Early diagnosis and intervention are critical for favorable outcomes in pediatric cases.

Observation:

• A 12-month-old boy presented with bilateral eye swelling and left eye discharge following blunt trauma.
• Initial computed tomography showed preseptal edema but no orbital involvement or drainable abscess.
• Worsening symptoms included purulent discharge and lower eyelid abscess with skin necrosis.

Findings:

• The patient was diagnosed with periocular necrotizing fasciitis.
• Successful treatment involved surgical debridement and intravenous antibiotics.

Implications:

• This case underscores the diagnostic challenges of periocular necrotizing fasciitis in children.
• Highlights the importance of prompt surgical intervention and broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy for suspected cases.