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Potential for severe airway obstruction from pediatric retropharyngeal abscess

Michelle M LeRiger1,2, Veronica Miler3, Joseph D Tobias3

  • 1Division of Pediatric Anesthesiology, Omaha Children's Hospital & Medical Center.

International Medical Case Reports Journal
|December 5, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Pediatric retropharyngeal abscesses can cause severe breathing problems. This case highlights the need for emergent tracheotomy in a 14-month-old with airway obstruction unresponsive to intubation.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Otolaryngology
  • Pediatric Emergency Medicine
  • Pediatric Anesthesiology

Background:

  • Retropharyngeal abscesses are uncommon infections in children.
  • These abscesses can lead to critical airway compromise.
  • Prompt recognition and management are crucial.

Observation:

  • A 14-month-old presented with severe airway obstruction.
  • The patient had a history of streptococcal pharyngitis.
  • Endotracheal intubation attempts by an experienced surgeon were unsuccessful.

Findings:

  • The case required an emergent tracheotomy due to failed intubation.
  • Successful airway secured via tracheotomy.
  • The patient had a significant retropharyngeal abscess.

Implications:

  • Multidisciplinary collaboration is essential for managing pediatric airway emergencies.
  • Emergent tracheotomy may be necessary when intubation fails.
  • Early diagnosis and intervention improve outcomes in severe pediatric airway obstruction.

Keywords:
emergent tracheotomypediatric airway obstructionpharyngitisrespiratory distressretropharyngeal abscess

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