Retropharyngeal Abscess: Diagnosis and Treatment Update

Brian      K. Reilly; James      S. Reilly

Abstract

Retropharyngeal abscess is a deep neck space infection that may present in various subtle ways permitting potentially lethal complications to occur before appropriate diagnosis is made and expedient management undertaken. This article reviews in detail the pertinent anatomy, diagnostic pearls, and clinical recommendations to optimally manage these common infections in children.

Keywords: Abscess, imaging, infection, neck, pediatric, retropharyngeal, Retropharyngeal abscess, diagnosis, pertinent anatomy, clinical recommendations, deep cervical tissue planes, buccopharyngeal fascia, diagnostic pearls, phlegmon