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Deep Neck Space Infections

  • Heather A. Osborn
  • Daniel G. Deschler
Chapter
First Online:

Abstract

Deep neck space infections are medical and surgical emergencies. Failure to diagnose and treat these infections promptly may lead to complications such as carotid artery rupture, airway obstruction, systemic sepsis, and descending mediastinitis. This chapter reviews the deep fascial spaces of the neck, describes the clinical signs and symptoms of various deep neck space infections, and discusses the diagnostic workup, typical microbiology, initial empiric antibiotic choices, and optimal surgical management of these infections. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, most patients recover from these potentially life-threatening infections.

Keywords

Deep neck space infections Submandibular abscess Submental abscess Sublingual abscess Danger space Prevertebral abscess Parapharyngeal abscess Retropharyngeal abscess Parotid abscess Peritonsillar abscess 
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© Springer International Publishing AG, part of Springer Nature 2018

Authors and Affiliations

  • Heather A. Osborn
    • 1
    • 2
  • Daniel G. Deschler
    • 3
  1. 1.Department of Surgery (Otolaryngology)Yale Medical SchoolNew HavenUSA
  2. 2.Smilow Cancer HospitalYale New Haven HealthNew HavenUSA
  3. 3.Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear InfirmaryHarvard Medical SchoolBostonUSA

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