Necrotizing fasciitis of the eyelids

E. M. Overholt, P. W. Flint, E. L. Overholt, C. S. Murakami

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

38 Scopus citations

Abstract

Necrotizing fasciitis is a destructive soft tissue infection that rarely involves the eyelids. Three cases of necrotizing fasciitis of the eyelids are described. Necrotizing fasciitis was preceded by minor forehead soft tissue trauma in two cases and occurred spontaneously in one. In two patients necrotizing fasciitis was bilateral and involved both the upper and lower eyelids. Review of these cases, in addition to 18 cases previously reported in the English literature, reveals a predominance in females, preceding minor local soft tissue trauma, frequent bilateral involvement, and an association with alcohol abuse and diabetes. In all of the patients, group A β-hemolytic streptococci were cultured from the wound. Early recognition of the disease process, prompt surgical debridement of the necrotic tissue, aggressive antimicrobial therapy, and delayed skin grafting combine to minimize morbidity.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)339-344
Number of pages6
JournalOtolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
Volume106
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - 1992
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery
  • Otorhinolaryngology

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