Retropharyngeal Abscess: Three Unusual Cases

Abstract

Introduction: Deep neck space abscess generally cure with medical treatment and needs hospitalization with parenteral antibiotic use. Retropharyngeal space is one of the deep neck spaces and abscess of this space is rarely encountered. Retropharyngeal abscess may cause mortality due to airway obstruction or extension to the danger space. Cases: Three unusual adult male patients were evaluated with retropharyngeal abscess. The common condition for all of them was the existence of poor social status and comorbid diseases. Conclusion: Extended abscess may show spontaneous drainage and can cause respiratory arrest due to purulent aspiration. In adult patients underlying factors must be controlled and surgical intervention should be evaluated as a step of the treatment.