Abstract

This study was performed Department of Otor hinolaryngology, Jubilee Mission Medical College, thrissur, Kerala for a period of 2 years commencing from December 2012 to November 2014. To review our experience with deep neck space infections and to study changing trends. The objectives were to study clinical presentation, etiology, associated systemic diseases, bacteriology, radiology, management and outcome of deep neck space infections.40 Patients coming from both urban and rural areas irrespective of age and sex admitted in department of ENT with deep neck space infections which was confirmed either clinically or radiologically. Superficial skin abscesses and abscesses due to infections of external neck injuries were excluded from the study \r\n.

Results: \r\the commonest infections leading to deep neck infection were dental infections and tonsillitis. Commonest symptom was pain odynophagia/dysphagia. Bacteria most often isolated were staphylococcus aureus. Gram negative organisms like klebsiella and pseudomonas were also isola ted. One of our patients underwent tracheostomy. Complications were seen in 12.5% of cases of which 2 patients died.\r\n.

Conclusion:: \r\nThe deep neck space infection is still a challenging disease in otolaryngology. Its presentation may be masked and bacterial culture might not be conclusive but it still needs early diagnosis and prompt management either conservative or surgical. Most of our patients needed surgical intervention, especially the pediatric cases. Early surgical intervention can reduce the complications. Tracheotomy should be considered if air way protection is needed\r\n

Keywords:Deep neck space infection; Peritonsillar abscess; Retropharyngeal abscess; Diagnosis; Surgical management