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J Pediatr Infect Dis 2019; 14(02): 043-051
DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1661010
Review Article
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Pediatric Deep Neck Space Infections: A Medical and Surgical Perspective

Sindhu Mohandas
1   Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States
,
Stacie Gregory
2   Department of Otolaryngology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
,
Robert H. Chun
2   Department of Otolaryngology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
,
Anna R. Huppler
3   Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Children's Hospital and Health System, Children's Research Institute, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States
› Author Affiliations Funding None.
Further Information

Publication History

28 September 2017

29 March 2018

Publication Date:
06 July 2018 (online)

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Abstract

Pediatric deep neck space infections (DNSI) are common in children. If unrecognized, DNSIs can rapidly progress with the potential for developing serious complications. Children fair better than their adult counterparts in the face of complications such as mediastinitis, but early recognition and aggressive management is key to prevent mortality and limit morbidity. Knowledge of the anatomy related to the deep neck spaces helps in anticipating and managing the potential complications. In this article, we review the clinical presentation, complications, and management in pediatric DNSI from the point of view of the pediatric infectious disease physician and the otolaryngologist. We discuss the best management based on current available evidence and the experience of the authors.

Keywords

deep neck space - neck abscess - retropharyngeal - parapharyngeal - peritonsillar - mediastinitis.

Financial Disclosure

All authors have no financial relationships relevant to this article to disclose.


 

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