Deep neck space infections remain a surgical challenge. A study of 72 patients.
OBJECTIVE
The treatment of deep neck space infections (DNSIs) remains a clinical challenge and these infections are associated with significant risks of mortality.


METHODS
We analyzed records over a 4.5-year period for all patients with DNSIs who required hospitalization. We recorded age, previous disease, delay in diagnosis, body temperature at admission, C-reactive protein level, X-ray results, location of DNSIs, origin of the infection, spread of infection, use of antibiotics, bacteriology, surgery and outcome.


RESULTS
A total of 72 patients (average age 45 years) were included. The locations and spread of DNSIs were described in detail. The commonest origins of DNSIs were dental (n = 35) or salivary gland infections (n = 15).


CONCLUSIONS
Continuous assessment of the patient using CT scans, fine-needle aspiration and physical examinations will determine if and when surgery is necessary. As a large number of DNSIs are of dental origin, it is of great importance that diagnosis and treatment be performed in close cooperation with dental surgeons.
Stalfors
Joacim
J
Departments of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden. joacim.stalfors@orlss.gu.se
Adielsson
Anna
A
Ebenfelt
Anders
A
Nethander
Gunnar
G
Westin
Thomas
T
D000038:Abscess / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000601:surgery; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001424:Bacterial Infections / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000601:surgery* / Q000628:therapy; D002481:Cellulitis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000601:surgery; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009333:Neck
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents