The value of frozen section biopsy in diagnosing necrotizing fasciitis: proposal of a new grading system

Abstract

Goals and objectives: Necrotizing fasciitis is a serious disease entity, with only limited pathognomic features.

Purpose: In necrotizing fasciitis a rapid diagnosis is necessary in order to reduce morbidity and mortality. In this study the investigation focused on specific features in the frozen section biopsy for diagnosing necrotizing fasciitis.

Methods: A total of ten patients are described with final pathological examination of resected tissue.

Results: A new grading system is suggested for frozen section biopsy in patients with necrotizing fasciitis. In the herein reported study it was found that granulocytes were present in both the frozen section biopsy and in the definitive paraffin coupes, in the subcutis and fascia layer.

Conclusion: Frozen section biopsy could be useful in diagnosing necrotizing fasciitis.