81 Retropharyngeal and Parapharyngeal Infections in Children

摘要

Retropharyngeal and parapharyngeal infections are uncommon but life-threatening deep neck space bacterial infections that need prompt diagnosis and treatment for good outcomes. The retropharyngeal space contains chains of lymph nodes in young children, that atrophy and involute usually by four to five years of age. As these retropharyngeal nodes drain the nasopharynx, adenoids, posterior paranasal sinuses, and middle ear, they can get infected and suppurate following upper respiratory infections. The retropharyngeal space communicates laterally with the parapharyngeal space.