Abstract: Necrotizing fasciitis of the head and neck is a rare and severe infectious disease characterized by necrosis of subcutaneous tissue and fascia, leaving the muscles initially unaffected. This infection progresses rapidly, if no intervention, and has a high mortality rate with no or inappropriate intervention. The purpose of this article was to systematically review the etiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of necrotizing fasciitis of the head and neck, and to discuss its diagnosis and treatment based on clinical experience, so as to enhance the understanding of the disease, reduce the mortality rate, and improve the diagnosis and treatment level of the disease.

Key words: Necrotizing fasciitis, Necrotizing soft tissue infection, Head and neck region, Negative pressure wound therapy