Retropharyngeal abscess

Treatment:

Surgical drainage of the abscess and high-dosage intravenous antibiotics are used to treat the infection. Protection of the airway from becoming completely blocked by the retropharyngeal swelling.

Expectations (prognosis):

Full recovery without sequela is expected following prompt treatment.

Complications:

• aspiration
• airway obstruction
• osteomyelitis
• mediastinitis
• draining neck sinuses

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you develop a high fever with severe throat pain. Breathing difficulty, intercostal retractions, and stridor indicate that an emergency situation is developing!