Necrotizing fasciitis caused by group A streptococcus infection after laser blepharoplasty

Abstract

Purpose: To describe a patient who developed early signs of necrotizing fasciitis after undergoing laser blepharoplasty.

Methods: A 36-year-old woman developed wound discharge, wound dehiscence, and facial swelling 66 hours postblepharoplasty. Cloxacillin was administered but changed to high-dose intravenous penicillin G and clindamycin when the eyelid cultures grew group A streptococcus (an organism capable of causing necrotizing fasciitis organism).

Results: The patient was treated with intravenous antibiotics for 10 days followed by 3 weeks of oral medications. The wounds healed spontaneously with an excellent result.

Conclusions: Infection postblepharoplasty is rare. When it occurs, tissue destruction can be potentially devastating. Prompt diagnosis, intravenous antibiotics, and close follow-up are essential.