Ludwig angina, empyema, pulmonary infiltration, and pericarditis secondary to extraction of a tooth

A case of Ludwig angina after extraction of a mandibular third molar, progressing to pleural effusion and empyema, pericarditis, pulmonary infiltration, and pericardial effusion has been presented. The importance of early diagnosis and treatment as well as appropriate antibiotic and surgical therapy have been discussed. The practice of empirically prescribed antimicrobial agents has also been discussed, and the relevance of the organism E corrodans in oral infections has been emphasized.