Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 12, 2026
A Model for Perineural Invasion in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Published on: January 5, 2017
Necrotising soft tissue infection in the head and neck region, 2017-2023
Nadja Tanovic1, Ellen Kvestad2, Trine Kåsine3
1Øre-, nese- og halsavdelingen, Drammen sykehus, Vestre Viken.
Background:
Necrotising soft tissue infection is a rare and severe infectious condition affecting the skin and underlying soft tissues. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, an increase has been reported internationally in cases caused by Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus, GAS). We have investigated the incidence, aetiology and resistance patterns of necrotising soft tissue infections in the head and neck region at the Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet for the period 2017-2023.
Material And Method:
Retrospective review of medical records of patients treated for necrotising soft tissue infection before the pandemic (1 January 2017 to 11 March 2020), during the pandemic (12 March 2020 to 12 February 2022) and after the pandemic (13 February 2022 to 31 December 2023).
Results:
Fifty-three patients with necrotising soft tissue infection were included in the study: 21 pre-pandemic, 7 during the pandemic and 25 post-pandemic. Group A Streptococcus was found in 27 patients, and all isolates were susceptible to penicillin.
Interpretation:
In line with reports from other countries, the results from our department may indicate an increase in necrotising soft tissue infections caused by group A Streptococcus in the period following the pandemic.
Insights
Necrotising soft tissue infections, particularly those caused by Group A Streptococcus, may be increasing post-pandemic. All identified Streptococcus pyogenes strains remained susceptible to penicillin.
Area of Science:
- Otorhinolaryngology
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Necrotising soft tissue infection (NSTI) is a severe condition.
- International reports suggest an increase in Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus, GAS) infections post-COVID-19 pandemic.
- This study focuses on head and neck NSTIs.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the incidence and etiology of head and neck NSTIs.
- Analyze resistance patterns of causative bacteria.
- Compare pre-pandemic, during-pandemic, and post-pandemic periods.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of medical records from 2017-2023.
- Inclusion of patients treated for NSTI.
- Categorization into pre-pandemic, during-pandemic, and post-pandemic groups.
Main Results:
- Fifty-three patients were included: 21 pre-pandemic, 7 during, and 25 post-pandemic.
- Group A Streptococcus (GAS) was identified in 27 patients.
- All GAS isolates were susceptible to penicillin.
Conclusions:
- The study period saw a notable increase in NSTIs, particularly post-pandemic.
- Findings align with international trends of rising GAS infections.
- Penicillin remains an effective treatment for GAS in this cohort.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Veins of Head and Neck
On the other hand, the vertebral veins, unlike their arterial counterparts, are not primarily responsible for brain drainage. Instead, they drain the cervical vertebrae, spinal cord, and some small...
01:26Healthcare Associated Infections I: Iatrogenic, Exogenic and Endogenic
HAIs significantly increase the cost of health care. Extended stays in healthcare institutions, increased disability, increased costs of medications, including specialized antibiotics, and prolonged recovery times add to the patient's expenses and the healthcare institution and funding bodies.