Paravertebral neck abscess

Case contributed by Aravinda Perera
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Neck pain. History of illicit intravenous drug use.

Patient Data

Age: 35 years
Gender: Male
mri

Large right heterogeneous multiloculated lateral neck collection. This collection extends from amongst the paraspinal muscles (paravertebral neck space) at the level of the C2 vertebra into the right supraclavicular and right axillary regions. No epidural collection. Edema in the right carotid space suggested, and also in the right neck subcutaneous tissues. Fluid also noted in the retropharyngeal space.

Case Discussion

Incision and drainage surgery was performed. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from intra-operative specimens confirming a diagnosis of neck abscess.

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