Retropharyngeal abscess

Retropharyngeal abscess is a type of deep neck space infection, which can be a life-threatening infection if not detected early.

Potential threat to airways should always be considered.

Symptoms may be nonspecific (e.g., fever, dysphagia), especially in children under 2 years old.

CT scan of neck is the definitive investigation.

Treatment includes use of intravenous antibiotics and surgical or radiologically guided drainage. Type of surgical drainage depends on the size and extent of the abscess; this can be endo-oral or external.

Retropharyngeal abscess (RPA) is a neck infection involving abscess formation in the space between the prevertebral fascia and the constrictor muscles.[1]Jennings CR. Surgical anatomy of the neck. In: Gleeson M, Hilbert JS, eds. Scott-Brown's otorhinolaryngology, head and neck surgery. 7th ed. London: Hodder Arnold; 2008:1744-45. The condition occurs most frequently in children under 5 years of age, but its incidence is increasing in adults.[1]Jennings CR. Surgical anatomy of the neck. In: Gleeson M, Hilbert JS, eds. Scott-Brown's otorhinolaryngology, head and neck surgery. 7th ed. London: Hodder Arnold; 2008:1744-45.[2]Gaglani MJ, Edwards MS. Clinical indicators of childhood retropharyngeal abscess. Am J Emerg Med. 1995 May;13(3):333-6. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7755832?tool=bestpractice.com