Description

Petitpas et al identified risk factors for spread of cervical necrotizing fasciitis into the mediastinum. Spread into the mediastinum is potentially life-threatening and requires more aggressive management. The authors are from Lariboisiere University, Saint Louis University Hospital, La Pitie Salpetriere University Hospital and University Paris 7 in Paris.


Patient selection: cervical necrotizing fasciitis

 

Initial diagnostic method: contrast-enhanced CT of neck and chest

 

Predictors of mediastinal spread:

(1) oral intake of glucocorticoids before admission

(2) pharyngeal focus of the necrotizing fasciitis

(3) gas in the mediastinum on the initial CT scan

 

A patient with one or more risk factors requires more aggressive management.


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