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A rare cause of Ludwig's angina by Morganella morganii

Min-Po Ho1, Kuang-Chau Tsai, Szu-Lin Yen

  • 1Department of Emergency Medicine, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, 21 Nan-Ya South Road, Sec. 2, Panchiao, Taipei 220, Taiwan.

The Journal of Infection
|February 18, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Ludwig's angina, a severe neck infection, was rarely caused by Morganella morganii. This case highlights successful treatment with airway management, antibiotics, and surgery for this dangerous condition.

Area of Science:

  • Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Ludwig's angina is a rapidly progressing, life-threatening infection of the submandibular space.
  • It typically involves the floor of the mouth and neck, potentially compromising the airway.

Observation:

  • A rare case of Ludwig's angina was identified.
  • The causative agents were an unusual microorganism, Morganella morganii, and group D alpha-hemolytic streptococcus.

Findings:

  • This is the first reported instance of Ludwig's angina and deep neck infection attributed to Morganella morganii.
  • The patient survived without complications.

Implications:

  • This case expands the known microbial spectrum for Ludwig's angina.
  • It underscores the importance of prompt diagnosis and comprehensive management, including airway support, antibiotics, and surgical intervention, for severe deep neck infections.

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