Overview
Sublingual space abscesses are localized collections of pus within the sublingual region of the neck, often resulting from infections originating from the tonsils, dental sources, or poor oral hygiene, leading to significant morbidity 1.Diagnosis
Clinical presentation includes swelling under the tongue, pain, dysphagia, and fever 1.
Imaging (CT or MRI) is crucial for delineating the extent of the abscess and guiding management 1.
Fine-needle aspiration or incision and drainage may be diagnostic and therapeutic 1.Management
Initial treatment: Intravenous antibiotics targeting common pathogens (e.g., Streptococcus, Staphylococcus) 1.
Source control: Early surgical drainage (incision and drainage) is essential 1.
Supportive care: Fluid resuscitation, airway management, and monitoring for complications such as airway obstruction 1.Special Populations
Smokers: Higher risk; cessation advised to prevent recurrence 1.
Diabetes: Requires careful glycemic control to optimize healing and reduce infection risk 1.
Pediatrics: Similar management principles apply but with closer monitoring for airway compromise 1.Key Recommendations
Identify and treat underlying sources such as tonsillitis or dental infections to prevent recurrence (Evidence: Moderate 1).
Initiate prompt surgical drainage for sublingual space abscesses to manage infection effectively (Evidence: Moderate 1).
Consider risk factors including smoking and diabetes in management and follow-up planning (Evidence: Moderate 1).References
1 Buckley J, Harris AS, Addams-Williams J. Ten years of deep neck space abscesses. The Journal of laryngology and otology 2019. link