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Oral surgery

Ludwig's angina

British Dental Journal volume 235, page 798 (2023)Cite this article

Ludwig's angina, a severe infection of the head and neck region, was first identified by Wilhelm Frederick von Ludwig in 1836. This rapidly progressing condition affects the submandibular space, potentially leading to complications like airway obstruction and sepsis. Despite medical advancements, it remains a significant challenge due to its high morbidity and potential mortality.

A 49-year-old woman presented to a private dental clinic complaining of pain and swelling of the right-hand side. The pain had been transient previously but was constant upon presentation and the patient was also having difficulty with swallowing. Intra-oral examination was difficult as the patient was suffering from trismus with opening limited to less than a finger's width. Extra-oral examination found the swelling located in the right submandibular region, was turgid in consistency and tender to gentle palpation.

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References

  1. Parhiscar A, Har-El G. Deep neck abscess: a retrospective review of 210 cases. Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol 2001; 110: 1051-1054.

  2. Saini S, Kshetrapal KK, Ahlawat G, Kamal H, Singh T. Anaesthetic challenges in a patient with Ludwig angina: A case report. South Afr J Anaesth Analg 2008; 14: 10-11.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Rosedale Dental Centre, St Michael, Barbados

    E. Gamble

  2. University of the West Indies, Bridgetown, Barbados

    P. Chami

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  1. E. Gamble
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  2. P. Chami
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Correspondence to E. Gamble or P. Chami.

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Gamble, E., Chami, P. Ludwig's angina. Br Dent J 235, 798 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41415-023-6559-1

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