Severe Life Threatening Maxillofacial Infection in Pregnancy Presented as Ludwig's Angina

[摘要] Background. Ludwig's angina is a rapidly spreadingcellulitis that may produce upper airway obstruction often leadingto death. There is very little published information regardingthis condition in the pregnant patient.Case. A 24-yearold black female was admitted at 26 weeks gestation with toothpain, submandibular swelling, severe trismus, and dysphagea,consistent with Ludwig's angina. Her treatment included emergenttracheostomy, incision and drainage of associated spaces, teethextraction, and antibiotic therapy.Conclusions. During alife threatening infectious situation such as the one described,risks of maternal and fetal morbidity include both septicemia andasphyxia. Furthermore, the healthcare provider must consider therisks that the condition and the possible treatments may cause themother and her unborn child.

[学科分类] 妇产科学