Back to Search Start Over

Descending necrotising mediastinitis: two case reports and review of the literature

Authors :
E. Weaver
Xuan V. Nguyen
M. A. Brooks
Source :
European Respiratory Review, Vol 19, Iss 116, Pp 141-149 (2010), Eur Respir Rev
Publication Year :
2010
Publisher :
European Respiratory Society (ERS), 2010.

Abstract

Descending necrotising mediastinitis is a rare and serious infection with a high mortality rate, which complicates pharyngeal or odontogenic infection. Early recognition and treatment are essential in order to minimise morbidity. Evaluation with computed tomography is necessary to confirm the diagnosis and facilitate surgical planning. In addition to prompt empirical antiobiotic therapy, surgical intervention is necessary in nearly all cases. Surgical drainage and debridement may be performed through cervicotomy alone, or through combined cervicotomy and thoracotomy, depending upon the extent of disease. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy may play an auxiliary role. We present two recent cases with characteristic imaging findings, and review the relevant literature.

Details

ISSN :
16000617 and 09059180
Volume :
19
Database :
OpenAIRE
Journal :
European Respiratory Review
Accession number :
edsair.doi.dedup.....a9da8172d4e0fabf6f319c3bb5746ef8