Observation of Retropharyngeal Fluid Collection in 2 COVID-19 Positive Patients

• Type of Material: Article
• Authors: Andrew J. Steehler, Emory University; Samir A. Ballestas, Emory University; Danielle Scarola, Emory University; Oswaldo Henriquez Ajami, Emory University; Charles Moore, Emory University
• Language: English
• Date: 2020-11-06
• Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS INC
• Publication Version: Final Published Version
• Copyright Statement: © The Author(s) 2020
• License: Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International
• Final Published Version (URL): http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0145561320971370
• Title of Journal or Parent Work: ENT-EAR NOSE & THROAT JOURNAL
• Start Page: 145561320971370
• End Page: 145561320971370
• Grant/Funding Information: The author(s) received no financial support for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.
• Keywords: CT; Science & Technology; Life Sciences & Biomedicine; Otorhinolaryngology
• Research Categories: Health Sciences, Public Health; Biology, Virology

Abstract

Our understanding of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, is growing; yet, there remains much we do not understand, and unique presentations are abundant. One potential presentation is retropharyngeal edema, defined as fluid in the retropharyngeal space. Multiplanar imaging with computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging is ideal for characterizing and diagnosing these fluid collections rapidly as possible life-threatening complications may develop (eg, airway obstruction and mediastinitis). Here, we discuss the presentation, imaging identification, treatment, and recovery of retropharyngeal fluid collection in 2 COVID-19 cases. The significance of this article is to suggest conservative management as a viable treatment option for retropharyngeal fluid collection, as opposed to incision and drainage, in the setting of COVID-19.