Necrotizing fasciitis of the head and neck is a rapidly progressive soft tissue infection with high morbidity and mortality rates. The manifestations of this infection are extensive dissection and necrosis of the subcutaneous tissue and the superficial and/or deep fasciae with resultant widespread undermining of the adjacent tissue and extreme systemic toxicity. It is a rare condition and is usually mistaken in the initial diagnosis. Successful management of this infection requires early diagnosis, aggressive surgical debridement and prompt institution of broad spectrum antibiotics to control the infection. This report collects six cases of necrotizing fasciitis of the head and neck diagnosed in our department from 1991 through 1997. Based on our experience and the review of previous reports, the clinical manifestation, diagnosis and management of necrotizing fasciitis in the head and neck area are discussed.