Antibiotic-Only Treatment of Pediatric Retropharyngeal and Parapharyngeal Abscess: A Case Report

Deep neck infections (DNIs) in children are rare and atypical in early clinical manifestations. They are frequently misdiagnosed or overlooked and have a rapid onset and can progress to life-threatening complications. There are only a few reports on pediatric DNIs' clinical manifestations, diagnostic clues, and non-surgical treatment in China. This report presents a case of deep neck infection in a 9-year-5-month-old child that was successfully managed with intravenous antibiotics alone, without the need for surgical intervention. The patient initially presented with fever, sore throat, and hoarseness. Physical examination revealed ipsilateral neck swelling, head tilt, and restricted neck movement. Laboratory tests showed markedly elevated inflammatory markers, and neck CT revealed abscesses in the retropharyngeal and parapharyngeal spaces. The purpose of this case report is to emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and timely treatment to enable successful non-surgical management.