Clinicopathological, microbiological and radiological evaluation of deep neck spaces infections

• Published in: International Journal of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery Vol. 4; no. 2; p. 409
• Main Authors: Santhosh Reddy, M., Vijay Bharath Reddy, C. R.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 23.02.2018
• ISSN: 2454-5929; 2454-5937
• DOI: 10.18203/issn.2454-5929.ijohns20180698

Background: More and more use of antibiotics and development of new antibiotics have helped in reducing the morbidity associated with “deep neck infections”, but still their incidence is found in the general populations. Prompt diagnosis and early treatment are key. The objective of the study was to study deep neck infections regarding etiological factors, micro-biological features. Methods: A total of 24 patients were identified and diagnosed at S.V.S Medical College and Hospital Mahabubnagar over a period of 3 years, among them 12 patients were picked up at random basis for detailed study.   Results: It has been observed that the incidence of deep neck space infection was 3% till June 2010 and then it reduced to 1.76% by June 2011 and remained constant till October 2011. Sub-mandibular abscess was the most common in 58.3% of the cases. The most common source of infection of deep neck space infections was odontogenic in 45.8% of the cases. Airway obstruction was seen in 29% of the cases and mediastinitis was seen in only two patients. The most commonly observed organism involved in the deep neck space infections was streptococcus pyogenes in 75% of the cases. Conclusions: Deep neck space infections though rare, are associated with complications and most importantly antimicrobial resistance. Hence it is very important that these must not be neglected.