Alveolar Abscess and Spreading Infection Flashcards
What are some intra oral signs of ludwig’s angina?
Trismus
Deviated uvula
Raised swollen tongue
What vital structure should be considered when an incision is made on the palate?
The greater palatine artery
When an abscess spontaneously drains what may this mean for the abscess itself?
It is going to be a Chronic/Reoccurring Abscess
Where would you make an incision when draining an extra oral swelling of ludwigs angina?
2 fingers under marginal mandibular branch
What are some origins of an abscess?
What conditions linked with them?
Periapical periodontitis
Periodontal disease
Pericorinitis
After draining the pus and removing the cause of an abscess when may antibiotics be considered?
Antibiotics not always indicated (e.g. all pus drained) but may be indicated if severe, incomplete drainage or medical history concern (e.g. diabetic)
What bacteria is usually responsible for cellulitis?
Streptococcus
Describe how an infection spreads
- Decrease in host defence system (e.g. immunocompromised, opportunistic infection or lack of tx)
- Tissue invasion of pathogens
- Rapid & non-specific inflammatory response
In what direction does infection generally spread?
Area of least resistance
Why are blood glucose levels considered for a special investigation for an abscess?
Poorly controlled diabetes increases your risk of infection
Define abscess
Pathological cavity filled with pus and lined by a membrane
What questions about history of pain should be asked for suspected ludwigs angina?
Can they complete sentences
Can they eat/drink
What are clinical signs of Ludwig’s angina?
Raised swollen tongue
Fever
Dysphagia
Dyspnea (SOB)
Deviated uvula
What is cellulitis?
Cellulitis is an infection caused by bacteria getting into the deeper layers of your skin (connective tissues) usually non pus producing but can accumulate at source if untreated
What factors can affect the ability of an infection to spread?
Number and virulenece of organisms
Failure to drain pus
Patient health
Patient immune system