[Late diagnosis of retropharyngeal abscess in an infant]

In patients with respiratory distress and difficulty in swallowing life-threatening conditions should be born in mind. We report a case in which the diagnosis of retropharyngeal abscess was established with considerable delay in an eight-month girl. The etiology and clinical picture is discussed. We conclude that patients with stridor and drooling should be admitted to hospital at once and should be examined with equipment for tracheotomy/intubation ready. If the epiglottis is found to be normal the possibility of a retropharyngeal abscess should be considered.