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Retropharyngeal abscess

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• Symptoms
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Definition:

Retropharyngeal abscess is a collection of pus in the tissues in the back of the throat. It is a potentially life-threatening medical condition.

See also: Peritonsillar abscess

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Retropharyngeal abscess generally affects children under age 5. Infected material (pus) builds up in the space around the tissues at the back of the throat. This can occur during or immediately following a throat infection.

References:

Cummings CW, Flint PW, Haughey BH, et al. Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 4th ed. St Louis, Mo; Mosby; 2005:4365-4367.

Marx J. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice . 6th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2006:1120-1121.

• Review Date: 2/12/2007
• Reviewed By: Alden J. Pearl, M.D., Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Otolaryngology, State University of New York Health Science Center at Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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