<unk>  space is a deep space in neck extending from the base of skull to the posterior mediastinum. Microorganisms can be introduced into this space either through lymphatic or direct or traumatic spread leading to cellulitis. Cellulitis may progress to form phlegmon, which in-turn progress to form mature<unk> . Most common causes of<unk>  are polymicrobial infections, beta-hemolytic streptococcus, Streptococcus pyogenes (group A streptococcus [GAS]), Staphylococcus aureus (including methicillin-resistant S. aureus [[[Methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus infections|MRSA]]]), and respiratory anaerobes.<unk>  commonly affects children, median age being 4 years for children. Common complications of<unk>  are life-threatening descending necrotizing mediastinitis, sepsis,  internal jugular vein thrombophlebitis, and mediastinitis. Patients with<unk>  may present with pain in neck, fever, sore throat, and mass in neck . Diagnosis of<unk>  is based on clinical presentation supported by radio-graphic imaging. Management predominantly consists of empiric intravenous antibiotics or combination of surgical drainage and intravenous antibiotics.
Retropharyngeal abscess
Epiglottitis
Peritonsillar abscess
Adenoiditis
Laryngocele
Tracheal diverticulum
Nasopalatine cyst
Oropharyngeal cancer