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[Cervical necrotizing fasciitis disclosing HIV infection]
I Mohammedi1, P Ceruse, P Fontaine
1Service de Réanimation, Hôpital Edouard-Herriot, Lyon.
Summary
Necrotizing fasciitis of the neck, often from dental infections, is rare but deadly. This study highlights the critical need to test all patients with this condition for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Surgical Pathology
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Background:
- Necrotizing fasciitis is a severe, rapidly spreading infection affecting subcutaneous tissue and fascia.
- Odontogenic infections are the primary cause of cervical necrotizing fasciitis, a condition known for its rarity and high fatality rate.
- Standard treatment involves antibiotics, surgery, and supportive care.
Observation:
- Two cases of cervical necrotizing fasciitis were identified in patients with underlying human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.
- These cases underscore a potential, though not explicitly stated, association between HIV and severe head and neck infections.
Findings:
- The study reports on two rare instances of cervical necrotizing fasciitis.
- Both patients presented with co-existing human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, suggesting a possible link.
Implications:
- Clinicians must consider HIV as a potential underlying factor in patients diagnosed with cervical necrotizing fasciitis.
- Routine HIV testing is recommended for all patients presenting with this severe neck infection to ensure comprehensive care and management.
- Early detection of HIV in these patients can lead to timely antiretroviral therapy and improved outcomes.