Head and Neck ImagingLudwig's angina
(Wilhelm Friedrich von Ludwig, 1790-1865, German surgeon), infection of the
submandibular space
and
sublingual space
, usually secondary to infection of a tooth, spreading directly through fascial planes instead of by lymphatics. Clinically, these patients present with tender swelling in the submandibular space, swelling of the floor of the mouth and elevation of the tongue. Treatment is administration of antibiotics, but surgical drainage is indicated if there is insufficient response to medical treatment.
RH