A case report of descending necrotizing mediastinitis caused by odontogenic infection

ABSTRACT

Mediastinum is the space located between the right and left lung in the center of the thorax, and contains many vital organs such as heart, aorta, esophagus, vagus nerve, lymphatics. So the infection of mediastinal space cause a serious and potentially fatal process. Like other infections, surgical drainage, aggressive antibiotic therpy and supporative care are recommended for optimal outcome. Airway management in the presence of the neck, glottic edema, elevation of the tongue is a formidible problem especially in the case from odontogenic origin. We have rcently experienced such a case resulting in a number of local and systemic complications.