Infectious Diseases in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Volume 2006 (2006), Article ID 51931, 4 pages
doi:10.1155/IDOG/2006/51931
Obstetrics Case Report
Severe Life Threatening Maxillofacial Infection in Pregnancy Presented as Ludwig's Angina
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of Florida School of Dentistry, Gainesville 32610, FL, USA
2Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rush University, Chicago 60612, IL, USA
Received 5 January 2006; Revised 27 April 2006; Accepted 27 April 2006
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.