Danger space

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== Danger Space ==

The danger space is a potential space in the human body, located within the neck. It is a deep fascial space that extends from the base of the skull to the diaphragm. This space is clinically significant due to its potential to allow the spread of infections from the neck to the mediastinum.

Anatomy

The danger space is bordered anteriorly by the alar fascia and posteriorly by the prevertebral fascia. It is one of the deep cervical fascial spaces, which also include the retropharyngeal space and the prevertebral space. The danger space is continuous with the posterior mediastinum, making it a conduit for infections to spread from the neck to the chest.

Clinical Significance

Infections in the danger space can be life-threatening due to the potential for rapid spread to the mediastinum, leading to mediastinitis. This condition can result from various sources, including dental infections, tonsillitis, or pharyngeal abscesses. Symptoms of an infection in the danger space may include severe neck pain, fever, and difficulty swallowing.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of infections in the danger space typically involves imaging studies such as CT scans or MRIs to visualize the extent of the infection. Treatment often requires aggressive antibiotic therapy and may necessitate surgical drainage to prevent the spread of infection to the mediastinum.

Related Anatomical Structures

• Alar fascia
• Prevertebral fascia
• Retropharyngeal space
• Prevertebral space
• Mediastinum

See Also

• Deep cervical fascia
• Neck anatomy
• Mediastinitis