It’s Never Just a PTA: A Series of Deep Neck Infections with Literature Review

Lara Reichert^1*, Kevin Lin², Dayton Young¹ and Wasyl Szeremeta¹

¹Department of Otolaryngology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA

²School of Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA

*Corresponding Author : Lara Reichert MD, MPH
Department of Otolaryngology, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA
Tel: 409-772-2701
Fax: 409-772-1715
E-mail: larakreichert@gmail.com

Received: August 16, 2017 Accepted: September 04, 2017 Published: September 11, 2017

Citation: Reichert L, Lin K, Young D, Szeremeta W (2017) It’s Never Just a PTA: A Series of Deep Neck Infections with Literature Review. J Otol Rhinol 6:6. doi: 10.4172/2324-8785.1000330

Infections of the head and neck are commonly treated by otolaryngologists. Peritonsillar abscesses are a relatively frequent occurrence that can be treated on an outpatient basis, unlike other deep neck infections which typically require operative drainage. Patients are often transferred to institutions with specialist coverage, and accepting physicians must be wary of the presumed diagnosis. We present two cases of extensive deep neck infections requiring multiple operative procedures in patients who were transferred with a diagnosis of peritonsillar abscess. These cases and review of literature is a reminder to all to ensure an independent evaluation and differential diagnosis when assessing any patient.