Abstract
Although the incidence of deep neck infection has decreased following introduction of antibiotic treatment, a review of recent literature cites fatal complications. Between January 1985 and June 1987, 28 cases of deep neck infection were treated at our clinic. Three of those cases, including one of parapharyngeal cellulitis, one of submental abscess, and one of reatropharyngeal cellulitis, are discussed. Both the literature review and our case experience has indicated that, in many cases of deep neck infection, classical clinical signs are absent owing to the masking effect of antibiotic therapy and also that the incidence of anaerobic bacterial infection has recently in creased. CT scannings are useful for both the diagnosis and the treatment of deep neck infection. CT scannings provide information concerning 1) the locus of pathological involvement, 2) abscess formation and 3) indications of vascular complications. Such scannings also may indicate the best approach for surgical drainage. Prompt surgical drainage of the involved space is necessary even if CT scanning finds only cellulitis. The procedure not only restores local and general conditions but also prevents the development of fatal complications.
