Definition: An accumulation of purulent material in the space between the PHARYNX and the CERVICAL VERTEBRAE. This usually results from SUPPURATION of retropharyngeal LYMPH NODES in patients with UPPER RESPIRATORY TRACT INFECTIONS, perforation of the pharynx, or head and neck injuries.
coordinate IM with infection term (IM) but not BACTERIAL INFECTIONS (since most abscesses are bacterial)
Other names Abscess, Retropharyngeal; Retropharyngeal Abscesses; Abscesses, Retropharyngeal
