A rare presentation of Ludwig's angina with facial nerve palsy, case report

Abstract

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE OF CASE: Ludwig's angina is an inflammation of neck spaces making it immediately life-threatening. The infection spreads to adjacent planes destructing facial planes, aspirations of infective particles, or septic embolism to distant areas. Understanding the rare presentations will help early diagnosis and treatment. PRESENTATION OF CASE: This is about a 40 years-old man who presented with painful anterior neck swelling of 7 days duration. A diagnosis of Ludwig's angina with unilateral facial nerve paralysis and treated with immediate incision and drainage. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: Ludwig's may present clinical with a variety of complications. This complication may be related to ongoing sepsis or mass effects manifesting with airway compromise or nerve palsy. CONCLUSION: Although facial nerve palsy associated with Ludwig's angina is rare, it improves with immediate surgical decompression.