Retropharyngeal Abscess: One Case, An Unusual History

Sore throat is a common complaint encountered in the primary care setting. Differential diagnoses include streptococcal pharyngitis, allergic rhinitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and even gonococcal pharyngitis. A less often considered diagnosis is a retropharyngeal abscess. Although more common in children under 5 years old due to the immature lymph system, adults can nonetheless be afflicted with this potentially lifethreatening infection. This case presentation reviews a case involving a 22-year-old man who presented to a primary care clinic for persistent pharyngitis. Symptoms, clinical findings, evaluation, and management of this relatively uncommon diagnosis in adults will be reviewed