Infections and Edema

• Published in: Anesthesiology clinics Vol. 33; no. 2; pp. 329 - 346
• Main Authors: Linkov, Gary, MD, Soliman, Ahmed M.S., MD
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Inc 01-06-2015
• Subjects: ACE inhibitor angioedema; Allergic angioedema; Anesthesia & Perioperative Care; Angioedema - complications; Angioedema - diagnosis; Angioedema - therapy; Bacterial Infections - complications; Bacterial Infections - diagnosis; Bacterial Infections - therapy; Deep neck infection; Edema - complications; Edema - diagnosis; Edema - therapy; Hereditary angioedema; Humans; Ludwig angina; Ludwig's Angina - complications; Ludwig's Angina - diagnosis; Ludwig's Angina - therapy; Peritonsillar abscess; Peritonsillar Abscess - complications; Peritonsillar Abscess - diagnosis; Peritonsillar Abscess - therapy; Respiratory Tract Infections - complications; Respiratory Tract Infections - diagnosis; Respiratory Tract Infections - therapy; Retropharyngeal abscess; Retropharyngeal Abscess - complications; Retropharyngeal Abscess - diagnosis; Retropharyngeal Abscess - therapy; Supraglottitis; Supraglottitis - complications; Supraglottitis - diagnosis; Supraglottitis - therapy; Allergic angioedema; Hereditary angioedema; Peritonsillar abscess; Retropharyngeal abscess; Deep neck infection; Supraglottitis; Ludwig angina; ACE inhibitor angioedema
• ISSN: 1932-2275; 2210-3538
• DOI: 10.1016/j.anclin.2015.02.005

Infectious and inflammatory conditions of the head and neck may present with impaired airways. An understanding of the pathophysiology will allow for accurate diagnosis and prompt intervention. Preintervention discussion and planning by members of the airway team are crucial in developing a primary and backup plans for safely securing the airway.