Deep Neck Space Infections: Presentations and Management

Deep neck space infections include, infections involving para-pharyngeal, retropharyngeal and submandibular spaces. Intrinsic or deep neck space infections usually represent the overgrowth of the normal flora with most infections being polymicrobial. The infections are of dental origin in a majority of the cases. The purpose of this study was to determine the various presentation, diagnosis and management outcomes of deep neck space infections. This study was conducted in the department of ENT, Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute, Bangalore from January 2014 to December 2015. Fifty (50) cases presenting with signs and symptoms of deep neck space infections to our Centre in the above period were evaluated. Dental infections were the most common aetiology followed by recurrent tonsillitis. Ludwig’s angina was the most common form of abscess, Incision and drainage was the most effective treatment. Diabetes mellitus (18%) was the most common associated systemic disease & complications encountered were airway obstruction and necrotizing fasciitis.