Seasonality and climatic associations with deep neck space abscesses in Korea: a canonical correlation analysis

Deep neck space abscesses are a significant medical issue, but their seasonality and climatic associations remain unclear.

This study aimed to examine the seasonality of deep neck space abscesses and identify associated climatic factors using a nationwide, population-based dataset.

We utilized Korean National Health Insurance data (2010-2019) to identify patients with peritonsillar, retropharyngeal, and parapharyngeal abscesses (J36, J39.0, J39.1). Seasonality was assessed by calculating the ratio of the highest to lowest monthly incidence. Multivariate canonical correlation analysis (CCA) evaluated associations with climatic factors, including temperature, humidity, precipitation, sunlight, ground temperature, particulate matter (<10 µm), ultraviolet A dose, and daily temperature range.

The incidence of deep neck space abscesses peaked in winter and was lowest in summer, with seasonality ratios of 2.03 (peritonsillar) and 2.15 (retropharyngeal and parapharyngeal). CCA demonstrated a strong correlation between climatic factors and abscess incidence. The two canonical roots had high canonical coefficients R of 0.7996 and 0.5542, respectively (p < 0.0001 and <0.0001).

This large population-based study highlights the seasonality and climatic relevance of deep neck space abscesses. Further research is needed to explore demographic factors affecting incidence.