Original Research Article
Year: 2018 | Month: July | Volume: 5 | Issue: 7 | Pages: 136-141
Neck Space Infections: Clinical and Bacteriological Profile
Soumya John, Kumari Radha MN
Department of ENT, Govt. Medical College Thrissur, Kerala.
Corresponding Author: Soumya John
ABSTRACT
"Pus in the neck calls for the surgeon's best judgment, his best skill and often for all his courage". What Mosher said about deep neck infections in 1929 still holds true. Neck space infections are rare but serious illness causing much morbidity and mortality. Results of various similar studies conducted in different parts of world showed large variations in prevalence, pattern, source of infection, bacteriological profile, and sensitivity to antibiotics.
Aim of the study: To study the clinical profile, etiology, predisposing factors, complications and management of neck space infections.
Study design: Cross sectional study
Period: 2 years
59 patients with neck space infections treated in Govt. Medical College Thrissur were included. Data collected and analysis done with Epi Info.
Results: Middle aged men with low socioeconomic status were more affected. Major risk factors were diabetes mellitus, immunosupression, and addictions. Submandibular space was the most commonly involved space, odontogenic infections being the most common etiology. Commonest organism was streptococcus pyogenes. Incidence of complications was 16.9% and was more in older age, patients with involvement of more than two spaces.
Conclusion: Neck space infections calls for prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment for a good patient outcome.
Key words: Neck space infection, neck spaces, odontogenic, bacteriology, complications.
[PDF Full Text]