Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 15, 2026

CO2-Lasertonsillotomy Under Local Anesthesia in Adults
Published on: November 6, 2019
Severe life threatening maxillofacial infection in pregnancy presented as Ludwig's angina
Shelly Abramowicz1, Jacques S Abramowicz, M Franklin Dolwick
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of Florida School of Dentistry, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
Background:
Ludwig's angina is a rapidly spreading cellulitis that may produce upper airway obstruction often leading to death. There is very little published information regarding this condition in the pregnant patient.
Case:
A 24-year old black female was admitted at 26 weeks gestation with tooth pain, submandibular swelling, severe trismus, and dysphagea, consistent with Ludwig's angina. Her treatment included emergent tracheostomy, incision and drainage of associated spaces, teeth extraction, and antibiotic therapy.
Conclusions:
During a life threatening infectious situation such as the one described, risks of maternal and fetal morbidity include both septicemia and asphyxia. Furthermore, the healthcare provider must consider the risks that the condition and the possible treatments may cause the mother and her unborn child.
Related Concept Videos
Tonsillitis II: Management
Tonsillitis I: Introduction
Etiology
Three primary contributing factors have been identified.
Acute Pharyngitis
Acute pharyngitis is the inflammation of the back of the throat (pharynx), commonly resulting in a sore throat. It is a frequently encountered condition that prompts individuals to seek medical advice.
Classification
Acute pharyngitis can be categorized based on its underlying cause:
Bacterial Meningitis I: Introduction
Brain Abscess l: Introduction
Angina V: Nursing Management