Descending necrotizing mediastinitis: A conservative approach.
- Resource Type
- Article
- Authors
- Iyer, Sriram; Collum, Joseph; Babores, Marta
- Source
- ENT: Ear, Nose & Throat Journal. Mar2014, Vol. 93 Issue 3, pE11-E14. 4p. 4 Black and White Photographs.
- Subject
- Language
- ISSN
- 0145-5613
Descending necrotizing mediastinitis (DNM) is a now-rare complication of dental and pharyngeal infections. Reports in the literature have emphasized the need for early, aggressive surgical intervention. We present a case of DNM with bilateral empyemas that arose secondary to a perforated pharyngeal abscess. The patient was successfully managed conservatively with intravenous antibiotics and intercostal drainage. We conclude that conservative management with antibiotics and image-guided percutaneous pleural drainage may be initially appropriate for the stable patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]