Ludwig's angina

Alternative names:

cellulitis, neck; neck abscess; neck infection; sublingual infection; submandibular space infection

Definition:

An acute bacterial infection of the mouth and throat with swelling that may block the airway.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Ludwig's angina is the most common infection of the neck and surrounding areas. It is a type of cellulitis that involves inflammation of the tissues of the neck, jaw, and below the tongue. It often occurs following infection of the roots of the teeth (such as tooth abscess) or after oral trauma. Swelling of the tissues occurs rapidly and may block the airway. This condition is uncommon in children.