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[A case of chronic masticator space abscess].
N Hiraki1, T Fujiyoshi, T Shimizu
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Medicine, Fukuoka.
Nihon Jibiinkoka Gakkai Kaiho
|January 23, 2002
Summary
Masticator space abscesses, often from mandibular molar infections, can mimic tumors. Surgical drainage and molar extraction led to a cure in this complex case.
Area of Science:
- Otorhinolaryngology
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- The masticator space is complex, making diagnosis and treatment of neoplasms and infections challenging.
- Abscesses in this region can present with non-specific symptoms, complicating early identification.
Observation:
- A 66-year-old man presented with a chronic nasopharyngeal masticator space abscess mimicking a neoplastic lesion.
- Initial presentation included subtle signs of infection over five years, with physical and CT findings suggestive of a tumor.
Findings:
- The abscess originated from periodontal infection and osteomyelitis of the mandibular molars.
- Infection spread along mastication muscles, forming abscesses in the masseter and temporalis muscles.
- Surgical intervention via the maxillary sinus facilitated diagnosis, pus drainage, and subsequent cure.
Implications:
- Masticator space abscesses frequently stem from mandibular molar infections, requiring thorough dental evaluation.
- Imaging modalities like CT, MRI, and bone scans are crucial for assessing infection spread in mastication muscles and mandibular bone.
- Understanding infection pathways is key for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of masticator space abscesses.