Tumoración submandibular y laterocervical bilateral en un lactante

Background: Deep neck infections are a frequent cause of infection in pediatrics, with potentially serious complications such as airway compromise, mediastinitis or sepsis, if there is a delay in diagnosis or treatment. The most frequent causative agents are Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus spp. The treatment consists of specific antibiotics and multidisciplinary management of possible complications. Clinical case: We present the case of a 10-month-old infant with fever and a labial ulcer, associating an important swelling in the laterocervical and bilateral submandibular region; with initial doubts about the airway compromise. Empirical intravenous treatment was started without requiring surgical treatment. The complementary tests showed PCR Influenza type B positive, as the origin of the febrile episode and in the labial sample grew a Staphylococcus aureus, which causes inflammation. He received directed antibiotic treatment and presented a good evolution without complications. Conclusion: Deep neck infections are a diagnostic challenge for pediatricians. Early diagnosis and proper management can prevent potentially serious complications.