title: Fatal mediastinitis secondary to odontogenic infection.
abstract: A case of necrotizing mediastinitis that caused death in a 38-year-old man has been reported. The cause of his infection was proved, both radiographically and clinically, to be dental infection associated with the lower molars and their supporting structures. A diffuse cellulitis involving the submandibular, masticator, and parapharyngeal spaces ensued. Sudden onset of severe pleuritic chest pains and a 100% pneumothorax of the left lung developed, which ultimately led to his death.
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001919:Bradycardia / Q000150:complications; D001991:Bronchitis / Q000150:complications; D005490:Focal Infection / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D005491:Focal Infection, Dental / Q000150:complications*; D006323:Heart Arrest / Q000150:complications; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008480:Mediastinitis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy; D010510:Periodontal Diseases / Q000150:complications; D011030:Pneumothorax / Q000150:complications; D011859:Radiography; D013290:Streptococcal Infections / Q000150:complications