What is Ludwig's Angina?

A bacterial infection on the floor of the mouth, the area right underneath the tongue, is called Ludwig's angina. It is uncommon in children and is a form of cellulitis. It can happen after mouth injuries or with teeth root infections like tooth abscesses.

Symptoms of Ludwig's Angina

Tissue swelling happens quickly and may keep you from swallowing saliva or may block the airway. Other signs of this condition include weakness, excess tiredness, fatigue, redness of the neck, neck pain, neck swelling, confusion, fever, and breathing difficulty. There may be other mental changes. There can be earaches, drooling, difficulty swallowing, or unusual speech.

Diagnosis

There can be a tissue culture to see if there is bacteria. A CT of the neck may be ordered. On examination the head and neck may show swelling and redness. They will look for a swelling in the mouth floor or tongue area.

Treatment of Ludwig's Angina

Emergency treatment may be needed if there is airway blockage. There may be a tracheostomy or breathing tube placed. Antibiotic therapy is given, usually intravenously with a penicillin like medication, until symptoms go away and then oral antibiotics are given until the bacteria is gone. Surgery may help drain fluids. Dental treatments may help tooth infections.

Complications that may occur with this condition include septic shock, generalized infection, and airway blockage. It can be a life-threatening condition.

Source: A.D.A.M.