Floor-of-mouth Multi-space Infection (Ludwig Angina)

Ludwig angina is rapidly spreading bilateral cellulitis of the floor of mouth (submandibular/sublingual/submental spaces), usually odontogenic, presenting with brawny swelling, tongue elevation, drooling, trismus, and risk of airway obstruction. Treatment: urgent airway management (intubation/tracheostomy if needed); intravenous broad-spectrum antibiotics; incision and drainage (bilateral if needed); treat odontogenic source; fluid support; ICU monitoring; imaging; prevent sepsis/airway compromise.

Common Symptoms

Brawny floor-of-mouth swelling; tongue elevation; drooling; trismus; airway risk

Causes and Pathogenesis

Odontogenic infection spreads to multiple floor-of-mouth spaces, causing rapidly progressive cellulitis/airway compromise.

Treatment

Urgent airway; IV antibiotics; drainage; treat odontogenic source; ICU monitoring

Preventive Measures

Treat dental infections early; oral hygiene.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Oral-maxillofacial-surgery/ENT/ICU/Emergency department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.