[Recent intractable bacterial infections in otolaryngology]

Antibiotic treatment has resulted in a significant change in the etiology and character of bacterial infections in otolaryngology as well as in another fields. Classic signs and symptoms may be masked. Administration of penicillin can be still effective in the treatment of usual bacterial infections, as it is effective against group A beta-hemolytic streptococci and most anaerobes except those that produce beta-lactamase. Administration of antibiotics, such as penicillin with clindamycin or chloramphenicol to combat both aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, coupled with surgical drainage is essential in management of deep neck infections. In this communication, several important bacterial diseases are described. Care should be taken to prevent airway obstruction, especially in deep neck infections and acute epiglottitis.