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Acute prevertebral abscess secondary to infected pancreatic pseudocyst
Ajay M Bhandarkar1, Suresh Pillai, Shruti Venkitachalam
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Karnataka, India.
Abstract:
We report a case of a middle aged, man with diabetes who presented with dysphagia and odynophagia. On evaluation, he was diagnosed to have an acute prevertebral abscess with an unusual aetiology, an infected pseudocyst of pancreas. Contrast-enhanced CT revealed an enhancing collection in the prevertebral space extending to the retrogastric space and communicating with the body of the pancreas via the oesophageal hiatus. Transoral incision and drainage of the prevertebral abscess were performed. Nasogastric tube was placed in the prevertebral space for continuous drainage and daily irrigation. Supportive intravenous broad spectrum antibiotic therapy along with the surgical intervention led to the resolution of the prevertebral abscess and the infected pancreatic pseudocyst.
Insights
A middle-aged man with diabetes developed a prevertebral abscess caused by an infected pancreatic pseudocyst. Treatment involved surgical drainage and antibiotics, successfully resolving the infection.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Prevertebral abscesses are rare, often originating from spinal infections.
- Pancreatic pseudocysts can lead to serious complications, including infection.
- Diabetes mellitus is a significant risk factor for various infections.
Observation:
- A middle-aged male diabetic patient presented with dysphagia and odynophagia.
- Imaging revealed an acute prevertebral abscess communicating with an infected pancreatic pseudocyst.
- The abscess extended into the retrogastric space via the esophageal hiatus.
Findings:
- Successful transoral incision and drainage of the prevertebral abscess were performed.
- A nasogastric tube facilitated continuous drainage and irrigation of the abscess cavity.
- Combined surgical and antibiotic management led to complete resolution.
Implications:
- This case highlights an unusual etiology for prevertebral abscesses.
- Early diagnosis and multidisciplinary management are crucial for favorable outcomes.
- Highlights the importance of considering pancreatic complications in abscess formation.
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