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Masticator space abscess in a 47-day-old infant
Eunhee Kim1, Ju Hee Jeon, Yoon Hee Shim
1Department of Pediatrics, Gwang-Myeong Sung-Ae General Hospital, Gwangmyeong, Korea.
Korean Journal of Pediatrics
|November 17, 2011
Summary
This case report details a rare masticator space abscess in a 47-day-old infant, successfully treated with antibiotics after ultrasound-guided drainage. The infant recovered fully, highlighting a non-odontogenic cause in neonates.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric infectious diseases
- Head and neck surgery
- Medical imaging
Background:
- Masticator space abscesses are uncommon in infants.
- Typically, these abscesses stem from odontogenic infections in adults.
- Neonatal infections can present atypically.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of masticator space abscess in a neonate.
- To highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic approach in this age group.
- To discuss potential non-odontogenic causes in infants.
Main Methods:
- Clinical presentation of fever, irritability, and buccal swelling in a 47-day-old infant.
- Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) scan of the neck identifying a masticator space abscess.
- Ultrasound-guided extraoral aspiration of the abscess for diagnosis and treatment.
Main Results:
- Staphylococcus aureus identified in pus and blood cultures.
- Successful treatment with antibiotics following aspiration.
- Complete resolution of the abscess confirmed by follow-up ultrasonography.
Conclusions:
- Masticator space abscess can occur in neonates without odontogenic infection.
- Septicemia is a potential underlying cause in infants.
- Prompt diagnosis and intervention are crucial for favorable outcomes.
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