Retropharyngeal Abscess Flashcards
Occurs as a rare complication of…
Tonsillitis
Where is the retropharyngeal space?
Between the buccopharyngeal fascia and the prevertebral fascia
Where does the retropharyngeal space extend down into?
From the base of the skull to the mediastinum
A retropharyngeal abscess can present similarly to…
Peritonsillar abscess
What symptoms are associated?
Stiff neck - held rigid and reluctant to move Neck tenderness Dysphagia Odonophagia Drooling Malaise
What signs are associated?
Diffuse swelling of neck Torticollis - abnormal neck position Fever Stridor Lymph node enlargement
What complications can occur?
Mediastinitis
Airway obstruction
Sepsis
Other than tonsillitis, RPA is usually caused by a bacterial infection originating from..
Nasopharynx Sinuses Adenoids Molar teeth Middle ear
Directly from a penetrating injury
How is it diagnosed?
CT neck
How is it managed?
Secure airway
Oxygen
Frequently require surgery to drain abscess
High dose IV antibiotics prior to surgery to reduce abscess size
IV fluids
Swab and culture pus - may need to change antibiotics
Chronic RPA is usually secondary to..
TB
Who is it typically seen in?
Young children after URTI
What can be seen on lateral X-ray?
Widening of retropharyngeal space
