[Retropharingeal abscess in paediatrics].

Abstract

Retropharingeal abscess is a potentially lethal but infrequent infection of the retropharyngeal space, thanks to the use of antibiotics. Caused by a suppurative lymphadenitis secondary to a locoregional infection of the head and neck, it is the most frequent abscess in Paediatric age. It must be present in our differential diagnosis when facing a torpid development of head and neck infectious processes accompanied by adenitis. A cervical lateral X-Ray should be done without delay and in case of doubt, a CAT--scan is mandatory. We protocolise its diagnosis and treatment in order to avoid its serious complications.