Deep neck space infection (retropharyngeal and parapharyngeal abscesses) with upper airway obstruction in a 7-day-old neonate

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Deep neck space infections (DNSIs) are rare in neonates. When they do occur, the infections are more aggressive than in older children and adults and can lead to life-threatening complications. Thus, a high index of suspicion is important for early diagnosis and prompt treatment. We report a rare case of DNSIs (retropharyngeal and parapharyngeal abscesses) in a 7-day-old neonate. The baby presented with fever, neck swelling, and difficulty in breathing. Plain neck radiograph showed widening of the retropharyngeal space and β-hemolytic Streptococcus was cultured from the aspirate. He was successfully managed with incision and drainage as well as broad-spectrum antibiotics (cefuroxime and metronidazole for 14 days and gentamicin for 7 days).