Retropharyngeal Abscess

Alternate Terms:
  • Abscess (Retropharyngeal)
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Retropharyngeal Abscess Definition by Healthwise:

Retropharyngeal Abscess

A retropharyngeal abscess occurs when a throat infection forms a collection of pus (abscess) in the back of the throat.

A retropharyngeal abscess usually needs to be drained and treated with antibiotics.

By: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review: Sarah Anne Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Donald R. Mintz, MD - Otolaryngology
Last Revised: July 27, 2010

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