A collection of pus in the tissues in the back of the throat. See also Peritonsillar abscess .
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Retropharyngeal abscess is a disease of children generally under age 5 years. Tissues at the back of the throat in young children allow for the formation of a pus-filled space (which doesn't occur in adults) immediately behind the back of the throat. This area can become secondarily infected during or immediately following a bacterial sore throat . The affected child, who may still have symptoms of the original sore throat, develops a high fever with an extremely severe sore throat. The pain causes difficulty swallowing and the expanding abscess may interfere with breathing. Complications can be life-threatening. Retropharyngeal abscess requires immediate attention to prevent severe complications.
Signs and tests
X-ray , lateral neck or CT scan of the neck (demonstrates pus filled space between throat and neck vertebrae)
CBC (elevated white blood count )
throat culture (may demonstrate organism, Group A strep, Staph, and so on)
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.
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!
Prevention
Prompt diagnosis and treatment of pharyngitis or nasopharyngeal infections will generally prevent the development of retropharyngeal abscess.