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Ludwig´s angina complicated with septic shock

Abstract:

Introduction: Ludwig’s angina is one of the soft tissue infections of the neck and tongue floor with the most admissions to intensive care units (ICU) due to its compromise of the airway and complications from septic shock. The incidence is higher in the adult population, and with the use of the latest generation antibiotics, its incidence has decreased. One of the most frequent causes is the presence of an odontogenic focus such as abscesses, mainly in the second and third molars. Objective: To describe a clinical case, admitted to the hospital ICU, highlighting the comprehensive management and adequate antibiotic therapy. Main data of the case: 24-year-old female patient, a native of Latacunga, went to the emergency service of the Hospital del Sur de Quito for a fever of 10 days of evolution and taking the general condition with signs of shock, and intense pain in the tongue, with edema, and impaired phonation. For initial management, intravenous tramal, IV hydrocortisone, and a broad spectrum antibiotic with piperacillin with tazobactam 4 grams IV every 6 hours, and IV metronidazole every 8 hours. Conclusions: Ludwig’s angina is a pathology that usually involves young patients, whose evolution is rapid and its inadequate management leads to death, associated with obstructive respiratory failure and severe sepsis, which requires a timely diagnosis.