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Retropharyngeal abscess (RPA) is an abscess located in the tissues in the back of the throat behind the posterior pharyngeal wall (the retropharyngeal space).Because RPAs typically occur in deep tissue, they are difficult to diagnose by physical examination alone.
The condition is characterised by chronic gastrointestinal symptoms relating to excessive gas retention including abdominal bloating with distension, flatulence, audible gurgling sounds, and chest and abdominal discomfort. [2] Some with the condition are also unable to vomit, or can only do so with great difficulty.
The retropharyngeal space (abbreviated as "RPS" [1] [2]) is a potential space [2] [3] and deep compartment of the head and neck [1] situated posterior to the pharynx. [4] The RPS is bounded anteriorly by the buccopharyngeal fascia , posteriorly by the alar fascia , and laterally by the carotid sheath .
The retropharyngeal lymph nodes, from one to three in number, lie in the buccopharyngeal fascia, behind the upper part of the pharynx and in front of the arch of the atlas, being separated, however, from the latter by the longus capitis. Their afferents drain the nasal cavities, the nasal part of the pharynx, and the auditory tubes.
Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) or laryngopharyngeal reflux disease (LPRD) is the retrograde flow of gastric contents into the larynx, oropharynx and/or the nasopharynx. [4] [5] LPR causes respiratory symptoms such as cough and wheezing [6] and is often associated with head and neck complaints such as dysphonia, globus pharyngis, and dysphagia. [7]
Other conditions that can produce similar symptoms include epiglottitis, thyroiditis, retropharyngeal abscess, and occasionally heart disease. [2] NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, can be used to help with the pain. [2] Numbing medication, such as topical lidocaine, may also help. [4]
Acronyms Diseases and disorders CA Cancer: CACH Childhood ataxia with central nervous system hypomyelination (see vanishing white matter disease) : CAD Coronary artery disease
At the base of this recess is the retropharyngeal lymph node (the node of Rouvière). This is clinically significant in that it may be involved in certain head and neck cancers , notably nasopharyngeal cancer .