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Parapharyngeal abscess and torticollis
C Buchwald1, F Nissen, J Thomsen
1ENT-Department, Gentofte University Hospital, Hellerup, Denmark.
The Journal of Laryngology and Otology
|October 1, 1990
Summary
A rare case of parapharyngeal abscess with torticollis in an adult highlights diagnostic challenges. Early computed tomography (CT) of the neck proved essential for accurate diagnosis in this complex presentation.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Parapharyngeal abscesses can present with neck pain and limited mobility.
- Torticollis, often due to sternocleidomastoid muscle spasm, can have various causes.
Observation:
- A rare adult case presented with both a parapharyngeal abscess and torticollis.
- The torticollis was attributed to spastic contraction of the sternocleidomastoid muscle.
- Initial diagnosis was challenging due to the unusual combination of symptoms.
Findings:
- Computed tomography (CT) of the neck provided a clear and rapid diagnosis.
- CT imaging effectively identified the parapharyngeal abscess and its relation to the torticollis.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of early CT imaging in unexplained neck infections.
- CT is a valuable tool for diagnosing complex head and neck infections with atypical presentations.
- Prompt diagnosis through imaging can lead to timely and appropriate treatment.