Necrotizing fasciitis after scrotum skin injury in an infant: A case report

RATIONALE: Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a life-threatening situation that is rare in children, especially infants, and early diagnosis is challenging. Timely identification and broad-spectrum antibiotic and supportive treatment before surgical debridement are very important for survival and may reduce scar formation. PATIENT CONCERNS: A previously healthy 4-month-old infant was admitted to our pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) with a history of fever and cough for 5 days and extreme swelling of the scrotum for one day. Necrotic-like tissue without margins appeared on his scrotum and perineum in 24 hours. DIAGNOSIS: NF was suspected, and the patient soon developed shock. The patient underwent surgical debridement after his condition stabilized. Pathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of NF. INTERVENTION: Broad-spectrum antibiotic, immediate fluid resuscitation, assistant ventilation, and vasoactive drugs were administered. Surgical debridement and autologous split-thickness skin grafting were performed. OUTCOMES: The wound recovered well after 2 months. Ultrasound revealed normal testicles, and no anorectal injury was found. LESSONS: Close clinical monitoring and timely treatment of skin injuries in sick children are very important. Sufficient antibiotic administration and supportive treatment before surgical debridement are crucial for survival from NF.