Pediatric Cervicofacial Necrotizing Fasciitis: A Case Report Highlighting the Diagnostic Challenges and Management in a Child Without Preceding Trauma or Infection

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a rare but serious life-threatening condition in children that can be easily overlooked due to its atypical presentation and absence of common risk factors. This case involves a 10-year-old girl with a history of non-transfusion-dependent thalassemia and epilepsy who developed cervicofacial NF without any prior trauma or infection. The case highlights the importance of early recognition and prompt surgical intervention. In patients with underlying conditions, the rapid progression of NF underscores the need for a high index of suspicion when faced with unusual facial swelling or skin changes. Early surgical debridement and appropriate antibiotics are critical to improving outcomes and minimizing complications in pediatric NF cases.