Comparison of deep neck infections in children and adults from diagnosis to treatment: A cross-sectional retrospective study

Abstract

Background: Although deep neck infections (DNI) are less common today with antibiotics and oral care, they carry a serious risk of morbidity and mortality, especially when complications develop. These infections spread in potential cavities created by the layers of the deep neck fascia. Since the process of DNI in children and adults may differ, it was aimed to examine the patients in two groups, children and adults. Demographic characteristics, clinical findings, diagnosis and treatment processes of children and adults with DNI were presented and compared. In addition, another aim of the study was to examine the differences between the most common deep neck infections in the study. Methods: The medical files of 166 patients aged 1-78 years diagnosed with DNI were scanned retrospectively. In our study, when the differences between adults and children were taken into account about DNI, the 9 most common diagnoses were compared in terms of age, complaints, examination findings, radiological imaging reports, complete blood count, C-Reactive Protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, surgical procedures, medical treatment, hospitalization time and mortality rates. Results: The three most common causes of DNI were dental problems, lymphadenitis and tonsillitis. When the imaging methods requested for diagnosis were examined, it was seen that 52.4%(n=87) of those performed were computed tomography and 43.4%(n=72) ultrasonography. During treatment, all patients received prophylactic antibiotherapy. Tracheostomy was performed in 9 of 15 patients who developed respiratory distress during follow-up. Conclusions: Although the decreasing frequency of DNI, technological developments and increasing awareness, it still carries a serious risk of mortality and morbidity due to its potential and important complications. Due to inadequate dental and oral care, dental problems are still the most important factor in the aetiology of DNI. Reducing morbidity and mortality depends on rapid diagnosis and appropriate treatment selection.