Otorhinolaryngologic Diseases Commons^™

Avoiding Unnecessary Surgery In Acute Longus Colli Calcific Tendinitis: A Clinical Image Of A Retropharyngeal Abscess Mimicker, Brandon M. Nielsen, Oluyemi O. Omotoso

HCA Healthcare Journal of Medicine

Acute calcific tendinitis of the longus colli (LCT) is a rare, benign condition that frequently mimics retropharyngeal abscesses (RPA), a true surgical emergency. We present a 34-year-old woman presenting with 4 days of severe posterior neck pain, stiffness, and odynophagia. Initial evaluation revealed significantly elevated inflammatory markers (erythrocyte sedimentation rate [ESR] 113 mm/hr, C-reactive protein [CRP] 128 mg/L) and leukocytosis, raising immediate concern for deep neck infection. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) demonstrated a retropharyngeal fluid collection; however, the absence of peripheral ring enhancement and the presence of a pathognomonic calcification anterior to the C1 arch pointed toward LCT. This distinction …

Ludwig’S Angina And Treatment Considerations In The Covid-19 Pandemic, Kevyn Niu, Hossein Tohidi, Hibah Khan, Paul Kitsis

HCA Healthcare Journal of Medicine

Introduction

Ludwig’s angina is a type of severe cellulitis that spreads rapidly and carries a significant risk of airway compromise. Previous complications with COVID-19 are poorly described within the literature.

Case Presentation

This case report describes the complication of COVID-19 infection with suspected Ludwig’s angina 2 days after admission, resulting in awake fibroscopic endotracheal intubation. Emergent treatment and establishing a secure airway are paramount in these cases. We discuss the role of antibiotics and adjunct treatment in these cases of potential airway compromise.

Conclusion

Limited data demonstrate simultaneous infection of COVID-19 with these types of submandibular soft tissue infections in …