Review Article: Retropharyngeal Abscess-Mimickers and Masqueraders

To discuss a case of suspected retropharyngeal abscess having important clinical and academic significance. This paper discusses an unusual presentation and evolution of a well known condition such as retropharyngeal abscess. Though the diagnosis in this case was initially a retropharyngeal abscess, several unusual findings were evident, which interfered with the optimal management of the patient. A literature review revealed rare causes and lesions mimicking a retropharyngeal abscess, such as retropharyngeal calcific tendinitis and Kawasaki disease, which are neither familiar to otolaryngologists nor other specialists such as orthopedicians. It is possible that this patient was both over treated and undertreated at the same time. Though the diagnosis in this case could not be established with certainty, several important pieces of information came up, especially unusual causes of retropharyngeal abscess and management of the same. Retropharyngeal abscess is a well-known condition with established modes of management. However, certain variations may occur and may pose challenges in diagnosis and management. These variations are little known and need to be highlighted so that optimal management is ensured.