Recurrent cervical abscess: life-threatening presentation of chronic granulomatous disease in twin infants

Non-identical male twins presented at 12 and 13 weeks of life, respectively, with recurrent cervical abscesses and signs of imminent upper-airway obstruction (UAO). Despite adequate initial surgical drainage, airway patency became seriously jeopardised in both cases by recurrent abscess formation requiring further intervention. Chronic granulomatous disease was eventually diagnosed in both cases. The unusual presentation of this rare condition with life-threatening UAO in twin infants, a scenario not previously described, is reported and a management protocol suggested.