Infectious and inflammatory disorders (PEARLS)

NCCPA™ PANCE EENT Content Blueprint ⇒ Oropharyngeal disorders ⇒ Infectious and inflammatory disorders

Angioedema	*Patient will present as →* a 40-year-old female presents with rapid onset of lip, tongue, and throat swelling, with difficulty breathing and swallowing. She was recently started on an ACE inhibitor for hypertension. Examination reveals marked swelling of the lips and tongue with mild stridor, but no rash. The presentation suggests ACE inhibitor-induced angioedema. Immediate treatment includes discontinuation of the ACE inhibitor, and administration of subcutaneous epinephrine, intravenous corticosteroids, and antihistamines. The patient is monitored for airway compromise and prepared for possible intubation. She is advised to avoid ACE inhibitors and is switched to an alternative antihypertensive medication. Follow-up includes referral to an allergist. Angioedema is localized swelling of the deeper layers of the skin and mucous membranes due to increased vascular permeability Non-pitting, non-itchy swelling typically affecting the face, lips, tongue, and throat Can involve the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts, causing difficulty breathing or abdominal pain Common causes include allergic reactions, medications (especially ACE inhibitors), hereditary angioedema (C1 inhibitor deficiency), and idiopathic Rapid onset and can be life-threatening if airway obstruction occurs Hereditary angioedema presents with recurrent episodes and may not respond to typical allergy treatments DX: Diagnosed clinically, but C4 and C1 inhibitor levels can help diagnose hereditary angioedema TX: Immediate management includes securing the airway and treating allergic causes with epinephrine, antihistamines, and corticosteroids C1 inhibitor concentrate or bradykinin receptor antagonists for hereditary angioedema Angioedema of the tongue
Aphthous ulcers (ReelDx)	ReelDx Virtual Rounds (Aphthous ulcers) Aphthous ulcers You are called to see a 6-year-old with lesions on the gumline Patient Gender: Male Age: 5 years Weight: 46.6 lb/21.1 kg Height: 46 in/116.8 cm Vitals Blood Pressure: 112/39 Respiratory Rate: 20 Pulse Oximetry: 99% RA Signs and Symptoms 1 week painless lesions on gum line; 6mm bumps on neck. Click here to work through this patient case simulation. Patient will present as → a 22-year-old complaining of a painful sore for 2 days. He denies any alcohol or tobacco use and otherwise feels fine. The examination is significant for a 2-mm round ulceration with a yellow-gray center surrounded by a red halo on the left buccal mucosa Single or multiple small, shallow ulcers with a yellow-gray fibrinoid center with red halos DX: Diagnosis is made by history and clinical presentation Biopsy should be considered for ulcers lasting more than 3 weeks Rule out an oral manifestation of systemic disease: More likely if persists >3 wk or associated with constitutional symptoms. Focus on symptoms of eyes, mouth, genitalia, skin, GI tract, allergy, diet history, and physical exam TX: viscous lidocaine 2–5% applied to ulcer QID after meals until healed
Candidiasis (ReelDx)	ReelDx Virtual Rounds (Oral Candidiasis) Oral Candidiasis You are called to see a 3 week old with a black plaque on the tongue and diaper rash Patient Gender: Female Age: 3 weeks Weight: 9.5 lb/4.3 kg Vitals Temperature: 97.8 F/36.6 C Signs and Symptoms Black plaque on tongue; diaper rash Click here to work through this patient case simulation. Patient will present as → a 3-week-old infant with decreased appetite and a rash in her mouth. On physical exam, you note white plaques on her tongue that scrape off with a tongue depressor and bleed slightly. Potassium hydroxide (KOH) preparation of the scrapings demonstrates budding yeasts with hyphae. Immunocompromised, young patients Painful, white, fluffy patches that can be scraped off and may bleed when scraped (candidiasis can "come off"), leaving an erythematous, friable base DX: Potassium Hydroxide (KOH) prep for diagnosis TX: Antifungals, which are available in several forms (i.e., ketoconazole or fluconazole orally, clotrimazole troches, nystatin liquid rinses)
Deep neck infection	Patient will present as → a 51-year-old male patient who underwent extraction of the mandibular right third molar. Seven days after the surgery, the patient developed facial edema, fever, intraoral purulent discharge, and extreme local pain. Infectious cavities in the right and left submandibular, pterygomandibular, and pharyngeal regions were observed on computed tomography scans. Deep neck space infections most commonly arise from a septic focus of the mandibular teeth, tonsils, parotid gland, deep cervical lymph nodes, middle ear, or sinuses Classic manifestations of these infections include high fever, systemic toxicity, and local signs of erythema, edema, and fluctuance The most common organisms isolated from deep neck space infections are viridans streptococci DX: Computed tomography (CT) is the imaging modality of choice for the diagnosis of deep neck space infection MRI is useful for assessing the extent of soft tissue involvement and for delineating vascular complications TX: Antibiotics, aspiration or surgical drainage should be performed Minor trauma triggering cervicofacial necrotizing fasciitis from an odontogenic abscess. Image by Jain S, Nagpure PS, Singh R, Garg D - CC 2.0
Dental abscess	Patient will present as → a 30-year-old female presents with a severe toothache, swelling, and difficulty chewing for three days. She has a throbbing pain localized to the lower left molar, cheek swelling, and a bad taste in her mouth, along with a low-grade fever. Examination reveals a swollen, erythematous area around the lower left molar with fluctuance and purulent discharge. She is diagnosed with a dental abscess. Treatment includes incision and drainage, oral antibiotics (amoxicillin or clindamycin), and warm saltwater rinses. She is referred to a dentist for definitive care such as a root canal or extraction. Pain is managed with NSAIDs or acetaminophen, and follow-up is scheduled to ensure resolution and further dental treatment. Dental Abscess is a localized collection of pus in the teeth or gums due to bacterial infection. Caused by dental caries, trauma, or periodontal disease Severe, persistent, throbbing toothache that may radiate to the jaw, neck, or ear Swelling in the face or cheek, tender lymph nodes under the jaw or in the neck Fever, bad breath, and difficulty swallowing or opening the mouth The most common causative organisms are streptococci, staphylococci, and anaerobic bacteria DX: clinical examination and dental X-rays TX: Treatment involves draining the abscess via incision and drainage or root canal, antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin, clindamycin), and pain management (e.g., NSAIDs) Complications can include spread of infection to surrounding tissues, leading to cellulitis or osteomyelitis, and systemic involvement such as sepsis Preventive measures include good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and prompt treatment of dental caries and periodontal disease A crack (vertical fracture) in the tooth and root (green arrows) has split it into two even pieces, causing a lateral periodontal abscess (blue arrows).
Dental Caries	Dental Caries is the decay of tooth enamel and dentin caused by bacterial activity The primary causative bacteria are Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus species Risk factors include poor oral hygiene, frequent consumption of sugary or acidic foods and drinks, and reduced salivary flow Presents as white spots, brown spots, or visible holes on the tooth surface; may cause tooth pain or sensitivity DX: Based on visual inspection, dental radiographs, and clinical examination TX: Ranges from fluoride applications for early lesions to dental fillings, crowns, or root canals for more advanced decay Preventive measures include regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, dental sealants, fluoride treatments, and dietary modifications Severe cases may require tooth extraction if the decay is extensive © barks / Adobe Stock
Epiglottitis	Patient will present as → a 3-year-old who is brought into the emergency room by her parents. The child has had a high fever, sore throat, and stridor. She has a muffled voice and is sitting up on the stretcher, drooling while leaning forward with her neck extended. The patient’s parents are adamantly against vaccinations, claiming that they are a “government conspiracy.” You order a lateral neck x-ray, which shows a swollen epiglottis. The patient recovered following treatment with prednisone and ceftriaxone. Epiglottitis is supraglottic inflammation and obstruction of the airway due to infection with Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) Unvaccinated patient leaning forward, drooling, stridor, and distress (tripod position and muffled voice) The 3 D's of epiglottitis: Dysphagia Drooling Respiratory Distress DX: Secure airway, then culture for H.flu The classic finding is a thumbprint sign on a lateral neck x-ray from swelling TX: This is a medical emergency! Secure airway, admit, IV Ceftriaxone, and IV fluids
Gingivitis	*Patient will present as →* a 30-year-old female with bleeding gums while brushing, persistent bad breath, and a metallic taste in her mouth. She notes her gums are red and swollen and admits to inconsistent oral hygiene. Examination reveals erythematous, swollen gums that bleed on probing and plaque buildup. The diagnosis of gingivitis is made. Management includes a professional dental cleaning and education on proper oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and antiseptic mouthwash. She is advised to have regular dental check-ups every six months. Follow-up is scheduled to monitor improvement and prevent progression to periodontitis. Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gingiva (gums) caused by plaque accumulation Characterized by red, swollen gums that may bleed easily during brushing or flossing Caused by poor oral hygiene, leading to plaque buildup and bacterial colonization Risk factors include smoking, diabetes, certain medications, hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, puberty), and systemic diseases Symptoms include tender gums, bad breath (halitosis), and gum recession DX: Clinical examination by a dentist or periodontist, observing signs of inflammation and measuring periodontal pockets TX: Dental cleaning, improved oral hygiene practices, and address underlying conditions or risk factors Preventive measures include good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings Gingivitis
Oral herpes simplex (ReelDx)	ReelDx Virtual Rounds (Oral herpes simplex) Oral herpes simplex You are called to see a 6-year-old with painful vesicle and prodromal discomfort Patient Gender: Male Age: 6 years Vitals Temperature: 98.8 F/37.1 C Heart Rate: 90 Signs and Symptoms Inflamed, encrusted, painful vesicle; prodromal discomfort Click here to work through this patient case simulation. Patient will present as → a 17-year-old female complaining of a painful rash on her cheek. She says that it has come and gone a few times before and that she usually can feel itching and a tingling discomfort before a break out of the lesions. On physical exam, you observe clusters of small, tense vesicles on an erythematous base. HSV type 1, vesicular lesions all in the same stage of development, a prodromal period of tingling discomfort or itching DX: Diagnosis is clinical; laboratory confirmation by culture, PCR, direct immunofluorescence, or serologic testing can be done TX: Symptomatic treatment with antipyretics and analgesia is recommended. IV hydration is sometimes needed in cases of decreased oral intake Oral acyclovir (15 mg/kg/dose five times per day for 7–10 days; max 200 mg per dose) may decrease the duration of illness if started within 72 hours at the onset of symptoms
Laryngitis	Patient will present as → a 27-year-old mezzo-soprano who states that she developed acute hoarseness 2 days ago. Prior to that, she had a cold, the symptoms of which are improving. There is no history of smoking or other tobacco use. She is very worried as she has an upcoming performance 3 days from now. Almost always viral, hoarseness following a URI M.cat, H.flu Consider squamous cell carcinoma if hoarseness persists > 2 weeks, history of ETOH and or smoking Absence of pain or sore throat DX: clinical diagnosis ⇒ laryngoscopy is required for symptoms persisting > 3 wk TX: Relax voice (vocal rest), supportive therapy Oral or IM corticosteroids may also hasten recovery for performers but requires vocal fold evaluation before starting therapy Bacterial → erythromycin, cefuroxime, or Augmentin for cough or hoarseness
Peritonsillar abscess (ReelDx)	ReelDx Virtual Rounds (Peritonsillar abscess) Peritonsillar abscess You are called to see a 47-year-old with pharyngitis and difficulty swallowing Patient Gender: Female Age: Unspecified Signs and Symptoms ~4d pain back of throat; swelling; difficulty swallowing Click here to work through this patient case simulation. Patient will present as → a 19-year-old male who you are seeing for follow-up from the urgent care where he was seen 2 days earlier with a sore throat. The patient is febrile (102°F), has a muffled (hot potato) voice, and extreme difficulty opening his mouth (trismus). He opens it just far enough for you to note uvular deviation. A peritonsillar abscess results from the penetration of infection through the tonsillar capsule and the involvement of neighboring tissue Presents with a severe sore throat, lateral uvula displacement, bulging tonsillar pillar Hot potato (muffled) voice and deviation of the uvula to one side + Streptococcus pyogenes DX: Xray, CT, or ultrasound of the neck if the diagnosis is in doubt, particularly when the condition must be differentiated from a parapharyngeal infection or other deep neck infection All such patients require needle aspiration of the tonsillar mass and cultures. Aspiration of pus differentiates abscess from cellulitis TX: Aspiration, incision and drainage, and/or antibiotics Parenteral (IV) amoxicillin, amoxicillin-sulbactam, and clindamycin In less severe cases, oral antibiotics can be used for 7 to 10 days (i.e., amoxicillin, amoxicillin-clavulanate, clindamycin) Tonsillectomy may also be considered in about 10% of patients
Pharyngitis (ReelDx)	ReelDx Virtual Rounds (Acute pharyngitis) Acute pharyngitis You are called to see an 8 y/o with a sore throat, fever, and loss of appetite Patient Gender: Male Age: 8 years Weight: 52 lb/23.6 kg Height: 50 in/127 cm Vitals Temperature: Not Available Blood Pressure: 100/60 Heart Rate: 90 Respiratory Rate: 20 Pulse Oximetry: 98% RA Signs and Symptoms Strep, sore throat, fever, loss of appetite. Click here to work through this patient case simulation. *Patient will present as →* a 7-year-old boy is brought to his pediatrician for evaluation of a sore throat. The sore throat began 4 days ago and has progressively worsened. Associated symptoms include subjective fever, pain with swallowing, and fatigue. The patient denies cough or rhinorrhea. Vital signs are as follows: T 101.4 F, HR 88, BP 115/67, RR 14, and SpO2 99%. Physical examination is significant for purulent tonsillar exudate; no cervical lymphadenopathy is noted. Most cases of pharyngitis are viral - adenovirus is the most common cause Mononucleosis: Epstein Barr virus, fever, sore throat, lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, atypical lymphocytes, + heterophile agglutination test (monospot) Consider gonorrhea pharyngitis in patients with recent sexual encounters or with non-resolving pharyngitis Fungal in patients using inhaled steroids Group A Streptococcal pharyngitis: S. pyogenes DX: Centor Score for Strep Pharyngitis (MDCalc): 1. Absence of a cough, 2. exudates, 3. fever (> 100.4 F), 4. cervical lymphadenopathy If 3 out of 4 Centor criteria are met, get a rapid streptococcal test (sensitivity > 90%) If negative → throat culture is the gold standard NOT suggestive of strep are coryza, hoarseness, and cough TX: Viral: supportive Mononucleosis: Symptomatic and avoid contact sports; antibiotics such as amoxicillin or ampicillin may cause a rash For athletes planning to resume non-contact sports three weeks from symptom onset For strenuous contact sports four weeks after illness onset Fungal: clotrimazole, miconazole, or nystatin Group A Strep: Penicillin is first line, azithromycin if penicillin-allergic Complications: Rheumatic fever and post-strep glomerulonephritis Gonorrhea pharyngitis: follows the same principles for the approach to therapy of uncomplicated urogenital gonococcal infections Ceftriaxone 500 mg IM as a single dose for persons weighing <150 kg (300 lb) For persons weighing ≥150 kg (300 lb), 1 g of IM ceftriaxone should be administered