Maxillofacial Swelling and Infections

A variety of conditions may result in maxillofacial swelling in children, prompting a visit to the emergency department. Some of these diagnoses are self-limiting, whereas others may be life-threatening. Furthermore, the pediatric population is at significant risk for problems that rarely occur in adults. Emergency medicine providers must be able to identify these conditions, especially if specialty consultation is required. Some of the most common and significant causes of maxillofacial swelling in children are reviewed to help familiarize the practitioner with their presentation, causes, and available treatment options.