CAROTID SHEATH ABSCESSES IN CHILDHOOD (ANALYSIS OF CLINICAL CASES)

Background data. Clinical cases of development of carotid space abscess, which occurred as a complication of acute bacterial tonsillopharyngitis in children, were analyzed. Subject. Deep neck abscesses with an atypical initial location, namely in the carotid space, remain a common problem and are of particular interest. This is due to the rapid development of life-threatening complications, the early diagnosis of which is difficult due to the rapid progression of common cold symptoms to more severe ones. Treatment is also challenging given the age of the patient, the difficulty of accessing the deep neck, and the need for radical surgical treatment and postoperative rehabilitation. Objective. To analyze clinical cases of carotid abscess development occurring as a complication of acute tonsillopharyngitis in children, and to select the most effective protocols for timely diagnosis and treatment. Materials and methods. We analyzed the medical records of patients with carotid abscess that occurred as a complication of acute tonsillopharyngitis. Results. From September to November 2025, three children with carotid abscesses caused by acute tonsillopharyngitis were urgently hospitalized in the Maxillofacial and Plastic Surgery Department of the Tyumen Regional Clinical Hospital. During their inpatient stay, the patients received qualified surgical care, antimicrobial therapy, and intensive drug therapy. Following treatment, the children were discharged for outpatient follow-up care in satisfactory condition. Conclusions. To prevent carotid abscesses in children with acute tonsillopharyngitis, it is essential to promptly diagnose a bacterial infection and immediately prescribe antibacterial therapy. The modern approach to successful treatment of this complication is based on timely diagnosis, radical surgical intervention, antibiotic, symptomatic, and intensive therapy, and a comprehensive approach under the guidance of a multidisciplinary team of physicians.