Ludwigs Angina

Ludwig's angina is a type of cellulitis that involves inflammation of the tissues of the floor of the mouth, under the tongue. It often occurs following an infection of the roots of the teeth (such as tooth abscess) or after a mouth injury. Swelling of the tissues occurs rapidly and may block the airway or prevent swallowing of saliva. This condition is uncommon in children.

It is a rapidly and frequently fatal progressive gangrenous cellulitis and oedema of the soft tissues of the neck and floor of the mouth. It originates in the region of the submandibular gland with elevation and displacement of the tongue. The disease extends by continuity rather than lymphatic spread. Airway compromise has been recognised as the leading cause of death.

Airway compromise is always synonymous with the term Ludwig’s angina, and it is the leading cause of death. Therefore, airway management is the primary therapeutic concern.

Syptoms of Ludwig's Angina

• fever, chills
• facial pain
• inability to open the mouth (trismus)
• Stiffness of tongue movements
• difficulty breathing or swallowing
• muffled voice are noticeable in more advanced cases

Treatment of Ludwig's angina

Common treatment includes surgical procedure to drain the infection and cure the angina.