What Is a Neck Abscess?
A neck abscess is a collection of pus in the neck. Typically, the abscess is caused by an infection. As the pus continues to accumulate, the abscess will grow larger and form a mass. This can create other significant problems. Uncommonly large neck abscesses can push on other structures in the neck, such as the throat and windpipe, and lead to problems swallowing and breathing.
There are many possible causes of a neck abscess. Generally, an infection, commonly in the head or neck can lead to an abscess. An ear infection, the common cold and sinus infections are some common contributors to this condition. Another possible cause is tonsillitis, or inflammation of the tonsils. If any of these infections extends into the tissues within the neck or throat, an abscess may form.
A common type of abscess in the neck is a superficial neck abscess. This type of abscess is typically located right under the skin. It may be caused by an infection in the throat, swollen lymph nodes or a cold. The most common symptom is an irritated throat, which may appear sore, red and swollen. Other symptoms can include a fever, chills, stiffness and pain in the neck and overall feeling unwell.
Infections which occur deep under the skin in the neck may form a deep neck abscess. This type of abscess is commonly located near muscles and blood vessels deep into the neck. All of the symptoms of a superficial abscess may be present with a deep neck abscess with the addition of more severe neck pain, difficulty swallowing and neck swelling. If the abscess is particularly large, it could press on the airway and cause breathing problems. Pressure from a large abscess in the neck can also damage nerves in the neck, which may affect movement of the vocal cords.
Antibiotics are typically the first line of defense against a neck abscess. If antibiotics fail to cure the infection, an abscess drainage will be necessary. The drainage procedure will generally mean having a surgical incision made to drain the pus from the neck. From this drainage, the doctor will be able to identify the specific cause of the infection by examining the pus under a microscope. After the exact cause is found, a more specific type of antibiotic will be prescribed as a follow-up treatment.
An individual with a neck abscess should have it evaluated by a health care professional as soon as it is discovered. Typically, the doctor will order blood tests and do a throat culture to gain information on the infection present. The examination may also include more advanced diagnostic tests such as a computed tomography (CT) scan. This will enable a more detailed look at the abscess and will be able to differentiate an abscess from a cyst or tumor. In some incidences, an individual may be referred to an otolaryngologists or ear, nose and throat doctor to treat a very large or complex neck abscess.
Written by Nat Robinson
