CT and MR imaging evaluation of neck infections with clinical correlations

infection of the neck is a common clinical problem in all age groups, espec ially children and young adults. The clinical symptoms and signs are often suggestive of the diagnosis. Imaging studies including CT and MR imaging ar e frequently required to confirm the diagnosis but more importantly to loca lize the infectious process and search for and delineate an abscess cavity. Ultrasound has also been used in the evaluation of superficial neck infect ions, especially to determine fluid accumulation. Conventional films consis ting of an anteroposterior and lateral view were the examination before the introduction of CT in 1972. Conventional films can still be used for a pre liminary survey, especially of the retropharyngeal space when there is a qu estion of a retropharyngeal phlegmon or abscess.