Ludwig Angina is a bacterial cellulitis in the floor of the mouth triggered by a tooth infection (usually second or third mandibular molar). Ludwig angina is caused by streptococci or anaerobes.
Ludwig angina can displace the tongue backwards and obstruct the upper airway (medical emergency). Ludwig angina is described as a firm, bilaterally symmetric submandibular induration.
The typical patient is a smoker, alcoholic with bad hygiene and tooth infection. Management is via antibiotics, incision and drainage of the abscess (cellulitis) and maintaining the airway.
Ludwig’s angina is a cellulitis frequently
located at the area of the mandibular second
and third molars involving the submandibular,
sublingual and submental spaces.
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The apexes of these teeth are located just below the insertion of the mylohyoid muscle and consequently they are in close relationship with the submandibular space.