Neck Abscesses Flashcards
What are the common types of neck abscess?
Retropharyngeal
Parapharyngeal
Ludwig’s angina
Where does a retropharyngeal abscess effect?
Anterior to prevertebral fascia + behind pharynx
What are features of a retropharyngeal abscess?
Neck held upright and rigid
Systemically unwell
Airway compromise
Dysphagia
How is a suspected retropharyngeal abscess investigated?
Lateral neck x-ray
CT neck
How is a retropharyngeal abscess managed?
Secure airway
IV abx
Incision + drainage
Where does a parapharyngeal abscess effect?
Postero-lateral to oro/nasopharynx
What are the features of a parapharyngeal abscess?
Fever Odynophagia Trismus Reduced neck movements Swelling near SCM
How is a parapharyngeal abscess managed?
Secure airway
IV abx
Surgical drainage
What is Ludwig’s angina?
Infection of space between floor of mouth and mylohyoid
What is Ludwig’s angina commonly associated with?
Dental infections
What are features of Ludwig’s angina?
Floor of mouth swelling
Painful mouth
Protruding tongue
Drooling
How is Ludwig’s angina investigated?
CT neck
OPG
How is Ludwig’s angina managed?
Secure airway
IV abx
Surgery
