Sandbox:Retropharyngeal abscess

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Vishal Devarkonda, M.B.B.S[2]

Synonyms and keywords:

Pathophysiology

The retropharyngeal space extends from the base of the skull to the posterior mediastinum (figure 1). The anterior boundary is the middle layer of the deep cervical fascia (abutting the posterior esophageal wall). The posterior boundary is the deep layer of the deep cervical fascia. These fascia fuse inferiorly at the level between the first and second thoracic vertebrae. The retropharyngeal space communicates with the lateral pharyngeal space. The lateral pharyngeal space is bounded laterally by the carotid sheath, which contains the carotid artery and jugular vein [1].

The retropharyngeal space contains two chains of lymph nodes that are prominent in the young child, but atrophy before puberty [2-4].

Anatomy

Retropharyngeal space is a deep neck space in neck extending from the base of skull to the posterior mediastinum.

Boundaries

Anteriorly: Middle layer of the deep cervical fascia

Posteriorly: Deep layer of deep cervial fascia

Inferiorly:

Communication

Contents

Retropharyngeal space consists two pair of lymphnodes, which drains nasopharynx, adenoids, posterior paranasal sinuses, middle ear, and eustachian tube

Diagnosis

Laboratory findings

Treatment

General measures

Good hygiene which include retracting the foreskin regularly and gentle cleansing of entire glans, preputial sac, and foreskin were found effective in treating the diseases.