1
|
Corbin AF, Vijay A, Fried J, Carr MM. Acute Intratonsillar Abscess in an Adult: A Case Report and Literature Review. Cureus 2024; 16:e51657. [PMID: 38313933 PMCID: PMC10838114 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.51657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Intratonsillar abscess (ITA) is rarely reported. Here, we present an uncommon case of acute ITA in an adult, discuss the evaluation and treatment plan, and review the ITA literature. The abscess reported in the present study was diagnosed through a combination of clinical findings and computed tomography imaging, and treatment included drainage, intravenous (IV) clindamycin, and IV dexamethasone. The literature reports 72 ITA cases with specified treatments: 21 (29.2%) in adults, 19 (26.4%) in children, and 32 (44.4%) in patients of unspecified ages. Among them, 25 (34.7%) responded to antibiotics alone, 11 (15.3%) to needle aspiration and antibiotics, and 36 (50.0%) needed further intervention. Based on the presented case and literature review, we suggest the use of IV antibiotics with needle aspiration as the primary treatment for acute ITA. Incision and drainage (I&D) with antibiotics should be reserved for cases unresponsive to initial measures, and tonsillectomy is recommended for recurrent post-I&D cases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra F Corbin
- Otolaryngology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo, Buffalo, USA
| | - Arunima Vijay
- Diagnostic Radiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Jacob Fried
- Otolaryngology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo, Buffalo, USA
| | - Michele M Carr
- Otolaryngology, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo, Buffalo, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Rewis K, Yang S, Hurtuk A. A Rare Manifestation of Infectious Mononucleosis Tonsillitis. Cureus 2023; 15:e41827. [PMID: 37575845 PMCID: PMC10423017 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.41827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this case report is to describe a rare case of infectious mononucleosis (IM) hemorrhagic tonsillitis. Our patient presented with acute tonsillitis complicated by spontaneous tonsillar hemorrhage. This is a single case report with a literature review. A 19-year-old male presented to the emergency department with a 10-day history of worsening sore throat, recurrent fevers, malaise, and dysphagia to solids and liquids, as well as a three-day history of epistaxis and hemoptysis. He tested positive for Epstein-Barr virus and rhinovirus. On exam, a "hot potato" voice was noted along with bilateral tonsillar edema, erythema, and hypertrophy. Both tonsils with dry blood coating and no exudates were visualized. Computed tomography (CT) imaging of the neck demonstrated subcutaneous emphysema isolated to the tonsils. Treatment consisted of intravenous antibiotics and steroids, followed by an oral antibiotic, with subsequent full resolution of symptoms. This case illustrates a rare, severe manifestation of IM tonsillitis that radiographically can mimic other more severe soft-tissue neck infections on imaging, such as cervical necrotizing fasciitis. In patients presenting with hematemesis, hemoptysis, and/or epistaxis, along with tonsillar edema, erythema, and hypertrophy, a diagnosis of spontaneous hemorrhagic tonsillitis should be considered. The radiographic findings of soft-tissue emphysema in the deep spaces of the head and neck region may be seen in the setting of IM, mimicking other soft-tissue infections of the deep neck spaces.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlyn Rewis
- Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, USA
| | - Sara Yang
- Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, USA
| | - Agnes Hurtuk
- Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Hirvonen J, Heikkinen J, Nyman M, Happonen T, Velhonoja J, Irjala H, Soukka T, Mattila K, Nurminen J. MRI of acute neck infections: evidence summary and pictorial review. Insights Imaging 2023; 14:5. [PMID: 36617619 PMCID: PMC9826778 DOI: 10.1186/s13244-022-01347-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Infection of the deep neck spaces is a life-threatening acute illness that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers unsurpassed soft tissue discrimination and is therefore well suited for imaging neck infections. Recently, the feasibility, diagnostic accuracy, and clinical significance of this method have been documented in patients with acute neck infections. This review article summarizes the scientific evidence, provides a practical guide to image acquisition and interpretation, reviews the most common imaging findings, and discusses some difficult diagnoses and pitfalls in acute neck infections, to help both radiologists and clinicians in managing these critically ill patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jussi Hirvonen
- grid.1374.10000 0001 2097 1371Department of Radiology, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland ,grid.412330.70000 0004 0628 2985Medical Imaging Center, Department of Radiology, Tampere University and Tampere University Hospital, Tampere, Finland
| | - Jaakko Heikkinen
- grid.1374.10000 0001 2097 1371Department of Radiology, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Mikko Nyman
- grid.1374.10000 0001 2097 1371Department of Radiology, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Tatu Happonen
- grid.1374.10000 0001 2097 1371Department of Radiology, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Jarno Velhonoja
- grid.1374.10000 0001 2097 1371Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Heikki Irjala
- grid.1374.10000 0001 2097 1371Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Tero Soukka
- grid.1374.10000 0001 2097 1371Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Kimmo Mattila
- grid.1374.10000 0001 2097 1371Department of Radiology, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Janne Nurminen
- grid.1374.10000 0001 2097 1371Department of Radiology, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Imaging assessment of deep neck spaces infections: an anatomical approach. LA RADIOLOGIA MEDICA 2023; 128:81-92. [PMID: 36574110 DOI: 10.1007/s11547-022-01572-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Despite the widespread use of antibiotics, deep neck infections are still a relevant clinical problem and can cause severe and potentially life-threatening complications. Imaging plays a pivotal role into the clinical management of deep neck infections, allowing identification of the source of infections, definition of the precise extension of the disease and early diagnosis of local or distant complications. The complex anatomy of deep neck spaces may hide the actual extent of disease: the knowledge of neck anatomy enables radiologists to rapidly evaluate expected routes of spread of infections and to effectively communicate crucial information to surgeons. Computed Tomography is the most used imaging modality for assessing primary site of infection, extent of disease and local complications. Magnetic resonance imaging may be used as a second level imaging modality for individuating intracranial or spinal complications. The present work aims to review the imaging of deep neck spaces infections, focusing on relevant anatomy and clinical scenarios, underlining practical teaching points for each of them. Familiarity with deep neck spaces anatomy and knowledge of most common routes of spread of infections allow the radiologist to make a prompt diagnosis and to look for early signs of potential complications.
Collapse
|
5
|
Khoury M, Dong SX, Alsaffar H, Johnson-Obaseki S, Caulley L. Isolated oropharyngeal abscess with hypopharyngeal extension recurring 12 years after initial surgical management: A case report and review of the literature. SAGE Open Med Case Rep 2022; 10:2050313X221089119. [PMID: 35401981 PMCID: PMC8984837 DOI: 10.1177/2050313x221089119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pharyngeal abscesses require urgent management as they have the propensity to cause severe and life-threatening complications. The introduction of antibiotics has led to a dramatic decline in the incidence of these infections. Regardless, abscess formation continues to be observed in the peritonsillar, parapharyngeal, and retropharyngeal spaces. Oropharyngeal and hypopharyngeal abscesses that cause airway obstruction are scarcely reported and tend to be secondary to other processes. Herein, we describe the case of an 83-year-old man presenting with an idiopathic, obstructive, oropharyngeal wall abscess, extending from the infratonsillar region to the hypopharynx, which recurred after initial surgical management 12 years prior for the same process. He required reintervention during both episodes for rapid reaccumulation. A detailed electronic literature search of PubMed and MedLine was performed for studies reporting on recurrent pharyngeal abscesses and their management. Results were limited to articles published in English from inception to August 2021. The timely management of pharyngeal infections acutely obstructing the airway is crucial. Physicians should adopt close and frequent monitoring and have a low threshold for reimaging should symptoms worsen or fail to improve after the initial surgical intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michel Khoury
- Department of Undergraduate Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Selina Xiangxu Dong
- Department of Undergraduate Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Hussain Alsaffar
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, The Ottawa Hospital, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Stephanie Johnson-Obaseki
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, The Ottawa Hospital, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Lisa Caulley
- Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, The Ottawa Hospital, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Knowledge Synthesis Group, Clinical Epidemiology Program, The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Heikkinen J, Nurminen J, Velhonoja J, Irjala H, Soukka T, Happonen T, Nyman M, Mattila K, Hirvonen J. MRI Findings in Acute Tonsillar Infections. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2022; 43:286-291. [PMID: 34916205 PMCID: PMC8985668 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a7368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Previous literature is vague on the prevalence and exact nature of abscesses in tonsillar infections, ranging from intratonsillar and peritonsillar collections to deep extension involving the parapharyngeal and retropharyngeal spaces. MR imaging has excellent diagnostic accuracy in detecting neck infections and can potentially clarify this issue. We sought to characterize the spectrum of MR imaging findings regarding tonsillar infections. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study of emergency neck MR imaging scans of patients with tonsillar infections. Imaging data were assessed in terms of signs of infection and the location of abscesses and were compared with clinical findings, final diagnoses, and surgical findings as reference standards. RESULTS The study included 132 patients with tonsillar infection. Of these, 110 patients (83%) had ≥1 abscess (99 unilateral, 11 bilateral; average volume, 3.2 mL). Most abscesses were peritonsillar, and we found no evidence of intratonsillar abscess. Imaging showed evidence of parapharyngeal and retropharyngeal extension in 36% and 10% of patients, respectively. MR imaging had a high positive predictive value for both abscesses (0.98) and deep extension (0.86). Patients with large abscesses and widespread edema patterns had a more severe course of illness. CONCLUSIONS Emergency neck MR imaging can accurately describe the extent and nature of abscess formation in tonsillar infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J. Heikkinen
- From the Departments of Radiology (J. Heikkinen, J.N., T.H., M.N., K.M., J. Hirvonen)
| | - J. Nurminen
- From the Departments of Radiology (J. Heikkinen, J.N., T.H., M.N., K.M., J. Hirvonen)
| | - J. Velhonoja
- Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (J.V., H.I.)
| | - H. Irjala
- Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (J.V., H.I.)
| | - T. Soukka
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (T.S.), University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - T. Happonen
- From the Departments of Radiology (J. Heikkinen, J.N., T.H., M.N., K.M., J. Hirvonen)
| | - M. Nyman
- From the Departments of Radiology (J. Heikkinen, J.N., T.H., M.N., K.M., J. Hirvonen)
| | - K. Mattila
- From the Departments of Radiology (J. Heikkinen, J.N., T.H., M.N., K.M., J. Hirvonen)
| | - J. Hirvonen
- From the Departments of Radiology (J. Heikkinen, J.N., T.H., M.N., K.M., J. Hirvonen)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Taniguchi Y, Nishikawa H, Yoshida T, Terada Y, Tada K, Tamura N, Kobayashi S. Expanding the spectrum of reactive arthritis (ReA): classic ReA and infection-related arthritis including poststreptococcal ReA, Poncet's disease, and iBCG-induced ReA. Rheumatol Int 2021; 41:1387-1398. [PMID: 33939015 PMCID: PMC8091991 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-021-04879-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Reactive arthritis (ReA) is a form of sterile arthritis that occurs secondary to an extra-articular infection in genetically predisposed individuals. The extra-articular infection is typically an infection of the gastrointestinal tract or genitourinary tract. Infection-related arthritis is a sterile arthritis associated with streptococcal tonsillitis, extra-articular tuberculosis, or intravesical instillation of bacillus Calmette–Guérin (iBCG) therapy for bladder cancer. These infection-related arthritis diagnoses are often grouped with ReA based on the pathogenic mechanism. However, the unique characteristics of these entities may be masked by a group classification. Therefore, we reviewed the clinical characteristics of classic ReA, poststreptococcal ReA, Poncet’s disease, and iBCG-induced ReA. Considering the diversity in triggering microbes, infection sites, and frequency of HLA-B27, these are different disorders. However, the clinical symptoms and intracellular parasitism pathogenic mechanism among classic ReA and infection-related arthritis entities are similar. Therefore, poststreptococcal ReA, Poncet’s disease, and iBCG-induced ReA could be included in the expanding spectrum of ReA, especially based on the pathogenic mechanism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yoshinori Taniguchi
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism, Nephrology and Rheumatology, Kochi Medical School Hospital, Nankoku, 783-8505, Japan.
| | - Hirofumi Nishikawa
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism, Nephrology and Rheumatology, Kochi Medical School Hospital, Nankoku, 783-8505, Japan
| | - Takeshi Yoshida
- Department of Internal Medicine, Chikamori Hospital, Kochi, Japan
| | - Yoshio Terada
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism, Nephrology and Rheumatology, Kochi Medical School Hospital, Nankoku, 783-8505, Japan
| | - Kurisu Tada
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naoto Tamura
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shigeto Kobayashi
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, Juntendo University Koshigaya Hospital, Saitama, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Kamalian S, Avery L, Lev MH, Schaefer PW, Curtin HD, Kamalian S. Nontraumatic Head and Neck Emergencies. Radiographics 2020; 39:1808-1823. [PMID: 31589568 DOI: 10.1148/rg.2019190159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Head and neck imaging is an intimidating subject for many radiologists because of the complex anatomy and potentially serious consequences of delayed or improper diagnosis of the diverse abnormalities involving this region. The purpose of this article is to help radiologists to understand the intricate anatomy of the head and neck and to review the imaging appearances of a variety of nontraumatic head and neck conditions that bring patients to the emergency department, including acute infectious and inflammatory diseases and acute complications of head and neck neoplasms. These conditions are presented in five sections on the basis of their primary location of involvement: the oral cavity and pharynx, neck, sinonasal tract, orbits, and ears. Important anatomic landmarks are reviewed briefly in each related section.Online supplemental material is available for this article.©RSNA, 2019.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shervin Kamalian
- From the Department of Radiology, Division of Emergency Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Blake SB Rm 0029A, Boston, MA 02114 (Shervin Kamalian, L.A., M.H.L., P.W.S., Shahmir Kamalian); and Department of Radiology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, Mass (H.D.C.)
| | - Laura Avery
- From the Department of Radiology, Division of Emergency Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Blake SB Rm 0029A, Boston, MA 02114 (Shervin Kamalian, L.A., M.H.L., P.W.S., Shahmir Kamalian); and Department of Radiology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, Mass (H.D.C.)
| | - Michael H Lev
- From the Department of Radiology, Division of Emergency Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Blake SB Rm 0029A, Boston, MA 02114 (Shervin Kamalian, L.A., M.H.L., P.W.S., Shahmir Kamalian); and Department of Radiology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, Mass (H.D.C.)
| | - Pamela W Schaefer
- From the Department of Radiology, Division of Emergency Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Blake SB Rm 0029A, Boston, MA 02114 (Shervin Kamalian, L.A., M.H.L., P.W.S., Shahmir Kamalian); and Department of Radiology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, Mass (H.D.C.)
| | - Hugh D Curtin
- From the Department of Radiology, Division of Emergency Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Blake SB Rm 0029A, Boston, MA 02114 (Shervin Kamalian, L.A., M.H.L., P.W.S., Shahmir Kamalian); and Department of Radiology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, Mass (H.D.C.)
| | - Shahmir Kamalian
- From the Department of Radiology, Division of Emergency Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Blake SB Rm 0029A, Boston, MA 02114 (Shervin Kamalian, L.A., M.H.L., P.W.S., Shahmir Kamalian); and Department of Radiology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, Mass (H.D.C.)
| |
Collapse
|