Retropharyngeal abscess in children

Retropharyngeal abscess (RPA) is an uncommon, potentially fatal condition found more frequently in children than adults. Prompt diagnosis and surgical management of this condition is imperative to prevent complications including airway obstruction and mediastinitis. Few studies have been dedicated to paediatric retropharyngeal abscess.

A retrospective analysis of 21 cases of retropharyngeal abscess at the Sydney Children's Hospital over a 12-year period was performed.

There were 12 boys and nine girls involved in the analysis. Their ages ranged from 3 months to 12 years. Common -presenting symptoms and signs included fever, dysphagia, neck swelling and torticollis. Respiratory compromise was present in 29% of the children at presentation. Foreign body ingestion accounted for 10% of cases. Seventeen cases were managed with surgical drainage. Surgical approaches adopted included transoral (70%), external cervical approach (20%) and a combined approach in 10%. There was no mortality. Mediastinitis occurred in two patients, one of whom also had recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy. No other serious complications occurred.

Retropharyngeal abscess should be considered in all children presenting with neck pain and dysphagia. Prompt diagnosis and institution of appropriate medical and surgical therapy is imperative to prevent complications such as airway obstruction. The management of this condition should occur in a paediatric institution with appropriate medical, surgical and intensive care -facilities.