IMPORTANT: We currently have a number of bugs related to image cropping and are actively trying to resolve them. In the meantime, we have disabled cropping. Apologies for any inconvenience. Stay informed: radiopaedia.org/chat

Complicated submandibular abscess with mediastinitis

Case contributed by Lukas Valkovic
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

27 year old patient hospitalized for submandibular abscess, after tooth extraction. Extraoral incision with drainage was performed. After temporary improvement, patient's condition became progressively worse and he was sent to CT exam.

Patient Data

Age: 27
Gender: Male

Infected fluid collections in left retro/submandibular, buccal and parapharyngeal spaces. Another in the floor of the mouth and also just lateral to the hyoid bone. The collection spreads in front of both thyroid gland lobes with extension into the anterior mediastinum. 

Encapsulated pleural effusion on the right, free pleural fluid on the left side as a reaction to mediastinitis.

Encapsulated pleural effusion on the right, free pleural fluid on the left side.

Case Discussion

This patient was treated with drainage and combination of antibiotics. With very limited success, he was sent to the chest surgery department. After that, we have no additional information. 

How to use cases

You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach.

Creating your own cases is easy.

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.