Polymicrobial necrotizing fasciitis after a primary cesarean section in a low-risk patient: A case report and literature review

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a rare life-threatening soft tissue infection, with only few obstetrical cases reported in the literature. We report a case of a previously healthy female who developed polymicrobial NF on day 4 post an uncomplicated primary cesarean delivery, who presented initially with fever, chills, and abdominal pain. The patient underwent a life-saving debridement of surgical wound with subsequent positive wound culture with polymicrobial growth and pathology suggestive of necrotizing fasciitis. Patient recovered in the intensive care unit with smooth postoperative course. Early diagnosis and presumed aggressive intervention with early surgical debridement and supportive therapy were key factors favoring the good prognosis seen in this patient. •Necrotizing fasciitis is a rare life-threatening event.•It rarely occurs after obstetrical procedures, especially after a cesarean delivery.•It is a clinical diagnosis and management should be initiated when suspected.•A delay in diagnosis and management can cause morbidity and mortality.