Microbiology and management of infected neck cysts

Abstract

To review and describe the microbiology, diagnosis, and management of infected neck cysts. Review the current medical literature and current textbooks. Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes are the predominant aerobic isolates, while pigmented Prevotella and Porphyromonas spp., and Peptostreptococcus spp., all part of the oral flora, are the predominant anaerobes. Therapy includes administration of antibiotics effective against the causative pathogen(s). Proper selection of therapy can be guided by culture of the lesion. Surgical drainage and resection may be necessary in case of suppuration. Prevention of suppuration can be achieved by surgical removal of cysts before acquisition of infection, or removal of those recurrently infected. Recognition of the importance of the skin or the oral flora in infected neck cysts can assist in the proper selection of antimicrobial therapy.