From the Research
Retropharyngeal abscess is a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention, typically with hospitalization for intravenous antibiotics and possible surgical drainage, as it can lead to serious complications such as descending necrotizing mediastinitis if left untreated 1. The most common presenting symptoms of retropharyngeal abscess are odynophagia and neck pain accompanied by fever, and preventive tracheotomy may be performed in the initial management of the patient in some cases 1. Some key points to consider in the management of retropharyngeal abscess include:
- The incidence of retropharyngeal abscess is rare, with a rate of 0.2 cases/100,000 inhabitants/year 1
- Personal medical histories most often associated with retropharyngeal abscess include alcoholism, smoking, diabetes, and obesity 1
- The most common aetiology found is impaction of a foreign body, especially a fishbone 1
- Surgical drainage of the abscess is required in most patients, especially with external approaches 1
- Close airway monitoring is essential as these infections can cause life-threatening obstruction 2
- Patients typically require 2-3 weeks of total antibiotic therapy, transitioning to oral antibiotics once clinically improved 3 The treatment of retropharyngeal abscess should be guided by the principles of prompt medical attention, hospitalization for intravenous antibiotics, and possible surgical drainage, with a focus on preventing serious complications and improving patient outcomes 1.