Life-threatening neck infections. Early diagnosis to forestall crisis

Infections of the neck become life-threatening with airway or systemic involvement. The first step in successful management is early recognition by the initial examiner. Patient evaluation includes a thorough history and physical examination, laboratory studies, and if the patient's condition is stable, roentgenographic studies. With early diagnosis of neck infections, serious complications such as spread to vital structures, toxicity, airway compromise, and sepsis can be prevented.