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Retropharyngeal abscess    See images

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Definition:

A collection of pus in the tissues in the back of the throat. See also Peritonsillar abscess.

Causes and Risks

Retropharyngeal abscess is a disease of children generally under age 5 years. Tissues at the back of the throat in young children allow for the formation of a pus-filled space (which doesn't occur in adults) immediately behind the back of the throat. This area can become secondarily infected during or immediately following a bacterial sore throat.

The affected child, who may still have symptoms of the original sore throat, develops a high fever with an extremely severe sore throat. The pain causes difficulty swallowing and the expanding abscess may interfere with breathing. Complications can be life-threatening.

Retropharyngeal abscess requires immediate attention to prevent severe complications.

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