Severe life threatening maxillofacial infection in pregnancy presented as Ludwig's Angina

• Authors: Shelly Abramowicz, Emory University; Jacques S. Abramowicz, Rush University; M. Franklin Dolwick, University of Florida
• Journal Title: Infectious Diseases in Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Volume: Volume 2006
• Publisher: Hindawi Publishing Corporation | 2006-10-13, Pages 51931-51931
• Type of Work: Article | Final Publisher PDF
• Publisher DOI: http://doi.org/10.1155/IDOG/2006/51931
• Subjects: Health Sciences, Medicine and Surgery; Health Sciences, Dentistry
• Keywords: Adult; Anti-Bacterial Agents; Drainage; Female; Humans; Ludwig's Angina; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Complications, Infectious; Submandibular Gland Diseases; Tooth Extraction; Tracheostomy

Abstract

Background. Ludwig's angina is a rapidly spreading cellulitis that may produce upper airway obstruction often leading to death. There is very little published information regarding this condition in the pregnant patient. Case. A 24-year old black female was admitted at 26 weeks gestation with tooth pain, submandibular swelling, severe trismus, and dysphagea,consistent with Ludwig's angina. Her treatment included emergent tracheostomy, incision and drainage of associated spaces, teeth extraction, and antibiotic therapy. Conclusions. During a life threatening infectious situation such as the one described,risks of maternal and fetal morbidity include both septicemia and asphyxia. Furthermore, the healthcare provider must consider the risks that the condition and the possible treatments may cause the mother and her unborn child.