How is retropharyngeal abscess diagnosed?

A doctor suspects a retropharyngeal abscess in children who have a severe, unexplained sore throat, a stiff neck, and noisy breathing. X-rays and computed tomography (CT) scans of the neck can confirm the diagnosis.

What does retropharyngeal abscess do to the body?

Retropharyngeal abscesses, most common among young children, can cause sore throat, fever, neck stiffness, and stridor. Diagnosis requires lateral neck x-ray or CT. Treatment is with endotracheal intubation, drainage, and antibiotics.

Is retropharyngeal abscess rare?

Retropharyngeal abscesses are uncommon but potentially life-threatening diagnosis. They can occur at any age, although are most commonly found in children under the age of five. Without proper treatment, retropharyngeal abscesses can lead to upper airway obstruction and asphyxiation.

Is retropharyngeal abscess life-threatening?

Retropharyngeal abscess is a collection of pus in the tissues in the back of the throat. It can be a life-threatening medical condition.

How to diagnose retropharyngeal abscess in a child?

If the child doesn’t cooperate by opening the mouth widely, a thorough lymph node exam is done, followed by imaging to confirm suspicion. A CT exam of the neck is the preferred imaging method. It can differentiate between retropharyngeal abscess and cellulitis. Complete rim enhancement indicates an abscess.

Where does a Retropharyngeal abscess occur in the neck?

Retropharyngeal Abscesses. A retropharyngeal abscess, or RPA, is a deep tissue neck infection. It is a serious and occasionally life-threatening infection due to the anatomic location and the potential for obstruction of the upper airway. The retropharyngeal space is found posterior to the esophageal wall and anterior to the prevertebral fascia.

Can a Retropharyngeal abscess compress the airway?

The mass of the abscess in the retropharyngeal space can compress the airway. Because this is the most immediately life-threatening complication of RPA, it must be addressed first, as follows: Abscess rupture can lead to asphyxiation or aspiration pneumonia.

What are the side effects of a Retropharyngeal abscess?

The abscess may also block your airway, which can lead to respiratory distress. Other complications may include: pneumonia. blood clots in the jugular vein. mediastinitis, or inflammation or infection in the chest cavity outside of the lungs. osteomyelitis, or bone infection.