Deep neck infections in children: A case study and review of the literature

A case study of a 2-year-old patient that presents to an emergency department with a 1-day history of neck swelling is used to emphasize the importance of early identification and management of deep neck infections in children. Although rare, deep neck infections can lead to fatal complications if not identified and treated early. This article presents the case followed by a detailed discussion of the pathophysiology, microbiology, and management of children with deep neck infections.