Which fascia separate the retropharyngeal space from the danger space?

alar fascia
The danger space is actually between the alar fascia and the prevertebral fascia and extends from the cranial base above to the level of the diaphragm….

Is retropharyngeal life-threatening?

Retropharyngeal abscess is a collection of pus in the tissues in the back of the throat. It can be a life-threatening medical condition.

What causes a retropharyngeal abscess?

A retropharyngeal abscess is usually caused by a bacterial infection that has spread from the tonsils, throat, sinuses, adenoids, or nose. (See figure A Look Inside the Throat.) Many infections are caused by a combination of bacteria.

Where is the retropharyngeal space and why is it clinically relevant?

The retropharyngeal space is a significant region to consider when evaluating a patient with neck pain as a multitude of pathologies can manifest and affect this area. The connection of the danger space to the mediastinum allows for the spread of infections from the oral cavity to the thoracic cavity.

What does retropharyngeal abscess do to the body?

Retropharyngeal abscesses, most common among young children, can cause sore throat, fever, neck stiffness, and stridor. Diagnosis requires lateral neck x-ray or CT. Treatment is with endotracheal intubation, drainage, and antibiotics.

Which is the most serious complication of acute retropharyngeal abscess?

Retropharyngeal abscesses are uncommon but potentially life-threatening diagnosis. They can occur at any age, although are most commonly found in children under the age of five. Without proper treatment, retropharyngeal abscesses can lead to upper airway obstruction and asphyxiation.

Why is it called danger space?

Anatomical terminology The danger space or alar space, is a region of the neck. The common name originates from the risk that an infection in this space can spread directly to the thorax, and, due to being a space continuous on the left and right, can furthermore allow infection to spread easily to either side.

What is the Prevertebral fascia?

The prevertebral fascia surrounds the vertebral column and its associated muscles; scalene muscles, prevertebral muscles, and the deep muscles of the back. It has attachments along the antero-posterior and supero-inferior axes: Superior attachment – base of the skull.

What is the danger space in neck?

The danger space is a deep compartment of the head and neck located behind the true retropharyngeal space, extending from the skull base to the mediastinum.

Why are infections of the retropharyngeal and prevertebral spaces inflammatory?

Infections of the retropharyngeal and prevertebral spaces are discovered because of symptoms related to the pharynx and/or spinal elements. Dysphagia or odynophagia is a common presenting complaint in adults; in infants, swallowing problems may manifest simply as “feeding difficulties.” Airway compromise is possible. Otalgia is possible.

Is there space between the alar and prevertebral fascia?

Prevertebral Space  Potential space between two layers of prevertebral fascia (alar and prevertebral layers).  Extends from skull base superiorly to the diaphragm inferiorly.  Mediastinitis is concern with prevertebral space infections similarly to retropharyngeal space infections. 32.

Where are the spaces in the cervical fascia?

These potential spaces lie between the layers of the superficial fascia and deep layers of the cervical fascia surrounding the structures of the neck. The fascial layers limit and also direct the spread of infection. These spaces include submandibular, parapharyngeal, retropharyngeal, and prevertebral spaces.

Can a retropharyngeal infection cause morbidity and mortality?

Imaging-guided aspiration and/or tissue sampling may be used to assist in the management of these infections. Infections of the retropharyngeal space (RS) and prevertebral space can result in significant morbidity and mortality.