title: Necrotizing infection of the face secondary to intranasal impaction of "crack" cocaine.
abstract: "Crack" is a crystalline form of cocaine that is readily available and sold in the form of small granules. The authors report a unique case of forced intranasal impaction of crack cocaine with subsequent extensive necrosis of the nose and upper lip accompanied by a necrotizing infection of the subcutaneous soft tissue of the cheeks, forehead, and temporal regions. The treatment of extensive facial necrosis resulting from infection and ischemia centers around the early diagnosis of the infectious process, prompt and aggressive surgical debridement, and the administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, The University of Louisville, KY 40202, USA.
authors.forename: B P
authors.initials: BP
authors.lastname: Tierney
authors.forename: W K
authors.initials: WK
authors.lastname: Stadelmann
mesh_terms: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D016578:Crack Cocaine / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007239:Infections / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D008875:Middle Aged; D009296:Nasal Cavity / Q000473:pathology*; D009336:Necrosis; D009667:Nose Deformities, Acquired / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery*; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000379:methods; D012867:Skin / Q000473:pathology*
chemical_list: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D016578:Crack Cocaine