RT Book, Section A1 Jauch, Edward C. A1 Valdez, J. Amadeo A2 Knoop, Kevin J. A2 Stack, Lawrence B. A2 Storrow, Alan B. A2 Thurman, R. Jason SR Print(0) ID 1181040660 T1 Ludwig Angina T2 The Atlas of Emergency Medicine, 5e YR 2021 FD 2021 PB McGraw-Hill PP New York, NY SN 9781260134940 LK accessmedicine.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?aid=1181040660 RD 2024/03/29 AB Ludwig angina is defined as rapidly spreading bilateral cellulitis of the submandibular and sublingual spaces with associated tongue elevation. A characteristic painful, brawny induration is present in the involved tissue. The posterior mandibular molars are the usual odontogenic origin for the infection. Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Bacteroides species are the most common pathogens. Affected individuals are typically 20 to 60 years old, with a male predominance. Patients are usually febrile and may demonstrate impressive trismus, dysphonia, and odynophagia. Dysphagia and drooling are secondary to tongue displacement and oropharyngeal swelling. Potential airway compromise or spread of infection to the deep cervical layers and the mediastinum is possible.