Deep neck infections are most commonly caused by spreading of odontogenic or tonsillopharyngeal infections. They are often purulent inflammations or abscesses of the floor of the mouth or fascial planes of the neck. Intravenous antimicrobial therapy and even surgery is often warranted to manage these infections. Cross-sectional imaging using computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging is crucial when planning surgery and assessing the extent of the infection.

This clinical study of 277 patients retrospectively reviewed aggravating factors, complications, and microbiological etiology between 2004 and 2015. It also evaluated the feasibility of using magnetic resonance imaging as a primary imaging modality in cases of acute neck infection. The results showed that deep neck infections are a growing problem and that the proportion of odontogenic infections has increased significantly. The mortality rate was 1.4% and complications were observed in one in five patients. Magnetic resonance imaging was found to be a feasible and accurate diagnostic tool when neck infection was suspected.

Pediatric deep neck infections are more rarely encountered and are more often caused by pharyngeal or lymph node infections than dental infections. The study showed that faster surgical treatment significantly shortened the length of hospital stay among children. In addition, to ensure adequate diagnostics, the importance and of obtaining cross-sectional imaging instead of ultrasound was emphasized in cases of suspected deep neck infection. In the prospective part of the study, preventive and predisposing factors and causes of severity were analyzed. The study confirmed that poor oral hygiene and limited access to dental care were background factors of infections requiring hospital treatment. Patients who frequently used acute dental care services were a particular risk group. In this study, dental infections, especially manifestations of advanced caries, were the main origin of adult deep neck infections that require hospital treatment, although these are often preventable. Thus, investments in good oral health, education, and adequate access to basic dental care could help reduce the economic burden, complications, and mortality caused by these infections.