Challenges in Diagnosis and Management of Infantile Deep Neck Abscess: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

A deep neck abscess is a relatively rare bacterial infection in infants that can rapidly progress to life-threatening complications. Mostly, the patients present with fever and neck pain. Some may present with dysphonia, sore throat, torticollis, trismus, or neck swelling. Early diagnosis and management can prevent life-threatening complications, such as airway obstruction, mediastinitis, and tracheitis. In this report, we present a case of a six-month-old infant presenting with retropharyngeal and parapharyngeal abscesses with prompt diagnosis leading to complete recovery of the patient.

Keywords: abscess; deep neck; diagnosis; infantile; management.