<P>Although mortality rates of necrotizing fasciitis (NF) in adults have been reported to be up to 34%, a recent population-based study by Eneli and Davies found children to have substantially lower rates than those reported in adults. However, failure to recognize and diagnose the condition early with resultant delay in treatment can be devastating.</P> <H4>ABOUT THE AUTHORS</H4> <P>Alexander K.C. Leung, MBBS, FRCP(C), FRCP(UK & Ire), FRCPCH, FAAP, is Clinical Associate Professor of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, and Pediatric Consultant, Alberta Children’s Hospital, Calgary, Alberta, Canada. I. Eneli, MD, MS, is Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Ohio State University, Ohio. H. Dele Davies, MD, MSc, MHCM, is Professor and Chair, Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan.</P> <P>Dr. Leung, Dr. Eneli, and Dr. Davies have reported no relevant financial relationships.</P> <P>Address correspondence to: H. Dele Davies, MD, Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI; fax 517-432-4466; e-mail <a href="mailto:Dele.Davies@hc.msu.edu">Dele.Davies@hc.msu.edu</a>. </P> <H4>EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES</H4> <OL> <LI>Cite a clear definition of necrotizing fasciitis and describe the epidemiology and microbiology of the disease.</LI> <LI>Review the clinical presentation of necrotizing fasciitis with careful attention to early signs of rapidly advancing disease.</LI> <LI>Determine the most effective management for necrotizing fasciitis and emphasize the need for a team approach to achieve the best outcomes.</LI> </OL>