Necrotizing Periocular Fasciitis

Abstract

Necrotizing fasciitis is a rare and potentially fatal disease caused by a severe infection that spreads from the superficial fasciae destroying the subcutaneous cellular tissue and overlying skin. Periocular forms of the disease are even rarer and can have serious consequences for the patient. The aim of this study was to contrast clinical findings and therapeutic outcomes in a series of four cases diagnosed at the Holguin Ophthalmology Center over the course of five years. Between 2017 and 2022, four patients with periocular forms of necrotizing fasciitis were diagnosed at the Holguín Ophthalmologic Center. Two patients had a history of minor trauma. Pain predominated among the local symptoms. Two patterns of lesions were identified: bilateral with ulceration and involvement of the upper palpebral region and unilateral with extension in both eyelids and dark appearance of the skin. Patients progressed to severity with deterioration of general condition. Debridement of necrotic tissue and treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics halted disease progression, although anatomical and functional sequelae remained. One patient died as a result of leukemia diagnosed during his admission. Early recognition of periocular necrotizing fasciitis and its immediate treatment is essential to ensure optimal outcome and patient survival. Periocular forms can have different clinical appearances, which should be taken into account when suspecting this condition, especially due to the initial similarity with preseptal cellulitis.