Ludwig angina

Case contributed by Matthew Lukies
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Swelling in the floor of the mouth several days after a dental procedure.

Patient Data

Age: 40 years
Gender: Female
ct
  • Edema and inflammation within the submandibular and sublingual spaces (floor of mouth), involving the left mylohyoid muscle and left anterior belly of digastric
  • Prominent left superficial cervical lymph nodes
  • Narrowing of the oropharynx at the level of the base of tongue
  • No distinct deep fluid collection

CT findings support a diagnosis of Ludwig angina, inflammation of the floor of mouth.

Case Discussion

Ludwig angina is primarily a clinical diagnosis, but this case demonstrates findings that may be present on CT to support the diagnosis.

The patient in this case did not have clinically significant airway compromise and was treated with antibiotics.

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