Risk Factors for Life-Threatening Complications of Maxillofacial Space Infection

The purpose of this study was to review the clinical features of maxillofacial space infection (MSI), and to identify the potential risk factors predisposing to life-threatening complications. A retrospective review of the medical charts of patients with MSI treated at Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology from August 2008 to September 2013 was conducted. A total of 127 patients [75 men (59.1%) and 52 women (40.9%); mean age, 45.39 ± 21.18 years, with a range of 1–85 years] formed the study cohort. The most common cause of MSI was odontogenic infection (57.5%). The most common space involved was the submandibular space. All patients were treated by antibiotics as well as surgical incision and drainage. Sixteen patients developed life-threatening complications, and the dominant complication was respiratory obstruction. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed the percentage of neutrophils (NEUT%) upon hospital admission ≥85.0% to be associated with life-threatening complications (P < 0.05). Even though adequate antibiotic therapy and incision and drainage of abscess were given, MSI patients with NEUT% upon hospital admission ≥85.0% carry a higher risk of life-threatening complications. In these patients, an aggressive treatment strategy is mandatory.