Understanding Deep Neck Infections

Deep neck infections, including peritonsillar abscesses and retropharyngeal abscesses, can present with symptoms such as sore throat, neck pain, and fever. These infections can escalate quickly, and recognizing the anatomy involved is crucial for effective diagnosis and management. Physicians should be able to differentiate between the types of deep neck infections based on clinical presentation and the involved structures. Differential diagnoses should consider bacterial, viral, and atypical infections based on the patient's vaccination status, age, and symptom progression.