Clinical and microbiological characteristics of deep neck space abscesses: a retrospective study.

BACKGROUND

Deep neck space abscesses (DNSA) are rare but can be life-threatening due to their rapid progression and variable presentation. Effective management requires prompt diagnosis, appropriate antimicrobial therapy, and timely surgical intervention.

OBJECTIVE

To explore the clinical and microbiological characteristics of DNSA and their impact on treatment decisions.

METHODS

This retrospective study analyzed 108 patients with DNSA treated at Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University from April 2013 to May 2021. Patient demographics, medical history, clinical symptoms, white blood cell count, imaging results, antibiotic use, and microbiological findings were collected. All patients underwent contrast-enhanced CT, and bacterial cultures guided antibiotic therapy.

RESULTS

Recurrence of DNSA was strongly associated with undiagnosed branchial cleft fistulas, highlighting the need for thorough etiological evaluation. Larger abscesses were more likely to have detectable pathogens. Streptococcus was the most common pathogen; however, there was no significant correlation between abscess size and Streptococcus infection, suggesting that its pathogenic potential is similar to that of other bacteria.

CONCLUSION AND SIGNIFICANCE: This study emphasizes the importance of timely surgical drainage, individualized antimicrobial therapy, and etiological investigation, particularly for branchial cleft fistulas, in managing DNSA.