Mediastinitis is an infection of the mediastinal connective tissue and surrounding structures, the course of which can be serious and lethal.
Descending necrotizing mediastinitis (DNM) is one of the most lethal forms of mediastinitis. It occurs as a result of a complication of cervical necrotizing fasciitis resulting from infections in the floor of the mouth or the cervical region and spreads to the mediastinum through the fascial planes without primary skin or muscle involvement. Necrosis and tissue damage develops from the infection spreading from this region through the fascial and deep cervical planes. It can lead mortality, if not prevented at the early stage. When early diagnosis is delayed, surgical drainage and debridement may be required.
Key words: Descending Necrotizing Mediastinitis
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