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Presentation and management of neck abscess: a retrospective analysis
1Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Southern California, Los Angeles.
The Laryngoscope
|August 1, 1988
Summary
Deep neck abscesses are often caused by hemolytic streptococci and anaerobic bacteria. Intravenous drug abuse is a frequent cause, particularly leading to carotid space infections primarily with Streptococcus species.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Deep neck abscesses are serious infections requiring prompt diagnosis and management.
- Understanding the common pathogens and etiologies is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the clinical presentation, etiology, location, and microbiology of deep neck abscesses.
- To identify common causative organisms and risk factors in a specific patient population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of 51 patients with deep neck abscesses.
- Analysis of patient data including presentation, etiology, location, and microbiological findings.
Main Results:
- Hemolytic streptococci and anaerobic species (Bacteroides, peptostreptococci) were the most common isolates.
- Intravenous drug abuse was the leading etiology, often associated with carotid space infections.
- Streptococcus species were identified in 50% of infections linked to intravenous drug abuse.
Conclusions:
- Microbial patterns in deep neck abscesses include common oral and pharyngeal flora.
- Intravenous drug abuse represents a significant risk factor and etiological agent for deep neck infections.
- Targeted antibiotic therapy should consider prevalent pathogens like Streptococcus species in at-risk populations.