Thyroid abscess
Schweitzer, V.G.; Olson, N.R.
Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery Official Journal of American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery 89(2): 226-229
1981
ISSN/ISBN: 0194-5998
PMID: 6787517
DOI: 10.1177/019459988108900216
Accession: 060403043
Primary thyroid abscess arising from acute suppurative thyroiditis is an unusual type of head and neck infection. Only 39 cases of thyroid abscess have been reported in the medical literature since 1950. Sixteen of these cases (41%) were in children. This presentation reports in detail two additional adult patients with thyroid abscesses. In addition, the incidence, etiology, signs and symptoms, complications, aids to diagnosis, and management are reviewed. Systemic antimicrobials combined with prompt surgical intervention will prevent the serious complications possible with this disease.