Parapharyngeal abscess secondary to lymphovenous malformation

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Vascular Malformations
• Emergency Medicine

Background:

• Deep neck space abscesses are rare but critical emergencies for ENT surgeons.
• Airway compromise is a significant risk associated with these infections.

Observation:

• This report details a unique case involving a palatine tonsillar, low-flow, lymphovenous malformation.
• This malformation predisposed the patient to multifocal deep neck space collections.

Findings:

• The multifocal deep neck space collections led to acute airway compromise.
• This case highlights an unusual etiology for deep neck infections and airway compromise.

Implications:

• Understanding rare vascular malformations is crucial for diagnosing and managing deep neck infections.
• This case broadens the differential diagnosis for deep neck abscesses presenting with airway compromise.