Retropharyngeal Edema – A Case Report

Abstract

Infections of the deep neck space involving retropharyngeal and prevertebral spaces can result in significant morbidity and mortality. A high index of suspicion is needed when we encounter a patient who presents with neck swelling and obstructive symptoms such as dysphagia and odynophagia. Proper history from the patient is crucial to narrow down possible diagnoses that are exceedingly uncommon. Other underlying medical illnesses and systemic conditions must be considered to exclude another possibility, especially when the patient is afebrile.