Analysis of facial and deep neck space infections in patients with comorbidities

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to analyze a series of patients with facial space infection associated with comorbidities. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data were collated from 98 patients with facial and deep neck space infections who met the inclusion criteria over a period of 3 years. Data included demographic information, anatomic space involved, and comorbid factors. RESULTS: A total of 98 patients who met the inclusion criteria were investigated in this study. Majority of the patients were within the age group of 46-55 (36.73%) years, whereas the least affected age group was 16-25 years (3.06%). Females were more involved while the spaces involved with Ludwig angina had the highest frequency. Diabetes mellitus (DM) was the highest comorbid factor. The patients presented mostly within 24-48 h from the onset of infection. CONCLUSIONS: Facial and deep neck space infections occur due to spread of infection within the spaces. DM and HIV infections are the most common comorbid factors.