Complications concerning odontogenic infections: Ludwig Angina

Abstract

Described in 1836 as being a toxic cellulite by Wilhelm Frederick von Ludwig, Ludwig's Angina can be an extremely deadly cellulite if there is no precise and early diagnosis. There are several causal factors, including dental infections and lacerations of the oral tissues, infections of the salivary glands, insect bites on the chin, infected oral cancers, lymphadenitis, and osteonecrosis of the mandible related to the use of bisphosphonates. Affecting the fascial spaces of the neck, submandibular space, submental space thus having the main involvement of the airways, immunosuppressed patients and compromised systemic condition tend to be more susceptible to Ludwig's Angina. Having immediate hospitalization treatment and then the prescription of antibiotics for infection control and surgical drainage to remove the purulent material and then the removal of the cause of the infection as extractions and endodontic treatment due to the involvement of the airways in some severe cases a tracheostomy or endotracheal intubation should performed. This work aims at a better understanding of the management of patients with Ludwig's Angina, offering the reader a knowledge about the etiology, diagnosis and treatment, as well as the prognosis related to the established treatment.