Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 19, 2026

CO2-Lasertonsillotomy Under Local Anesthesia in Adults
Published on: November 6, 2019
[Neck pain in children can be caused by a retropharyngeal abscess]
Ann-Marie Malby Schoos1, Bodil Damgaard, Eva Mosfeldt Jeppesen
1Børneafdelingen, Herlev Hospital, Herlev Ringvej 75, 2730 Herlev, Denmark. annmariemalby@hotmail.com
Abstract:
A six-year-old boy presented with fever, neck pain, and ear pain. Within days, the motility of his neck limited, his temperature rose, and blood samples showed signs of infection. On suspicion of cervical spondylodiscitis, a bone scintigraphy was performed, but gave negative results. A magnetic resonance imaging of the neck area showed results, which led to the diagnosis of a retropharyngeal abscess. This case is a reminder that retropharyngeal abscess poses a diagnostic challenge for the physician, and that the prognosis is potentially serious.
Related Concept Videos
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:
Tonsillitis II: Management
Chronic Pharyngitis
Etiology
It often arises from persistent viral or bacterial infections affecting sinuses and tonsils.
Additional contributing factors include inadequate dental hygiene, mouth breathing, recurring tonsillitis, allergic rhinitis, laryngopharyngeal reflux, and exposure to smoke, chemicals, and other environmental pollutants. Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and pet dander, chronic cough, excessive voice usage,...
Brain Abscess l: Introduction
Bacterial Meningitis I: Introduction