Deep Neck Infections: The Effectiveness of Therapeutic Management and Bacteriological Profile

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Infectious Diseases
• Critical Care Medicine

Background:

• Deep neck infections (DNIs) present severe diagnostic challenges with potential for serious complications.
• Limited data exists on predicting the progression and outcomes of DNIs.
• Understanding microbiological factors is crucial for managing DNIs and improving patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the microbiology of deep neck infections (DNIs).
• To identify clinical and microbiological factors associated with prolonged hospitalization in patients with DNIs.
• To establish risk factors for severe complications in deep neck infections.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort observational analytical study.
• Analysis of 138 patients with DNIs undergoing surgical treatment over an 8-year period.
• Evaluation of clinical data, microbiological findings, and hospitalization duration.

Main Results:

• Reduced lymphocyte percentages and elevated neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratios (NLRs) correlated with complications (p < 0.001).
• Diabetes mellitus (DM) and immunocompromised status were significant risk factors for complications (p < 0.001).
• Polymicrobial infections (p < 0.001) and airway obstruction (OR = 6.51) were strongly associated with prolonged hospitalization (mean 24.9 days vs. 8.32 days).

Conclusions:

• Deep neck infections (DNIs) exhibit complex pathology requiring tailored therapeutic strategies.
• Factors such as polymicrobial etiology, airway obstruction, and patient comorbidities significantly impact hospitalization length.
• Effective management of DNIs necessitates addressing these factors to reduce hospitalization duration and mortality.