What is the most serious potential complication that could develop in this patient?
Pharmacology questions in the ADC written exam test applied prescribing decisions, not rote recall of drug names. This exam-level vignette tests your ability to work through clinical details and arrive at the correct management.
Raj Patel, a 56-year-old man with type 2 diabetes and hypertension, presents to the emergency department with a 3-day history of severe facial swelling and difficulty swallowing. He developed toothache in his lower left molar 5 days ago but delayed seeking treatment. On examination, he has marked bilateral submandibular swelling extending to the submental area, with a woody, non-fluctuant consistency. His floor of mouth is swollen and elevated, pushing his tongue upward. He is sitting upright, leaning forward, and appears anxious. Vital signs show temperature 38.2°C, pulse 110 bpm, BP 145/90 mmHg, respiratory rate 22/min, oxygen saturation 96% on room air. He is taking metformin, ramipril, and amlodipine. What is the most serious potential complication that could develop in this patient?
- A. Complete airway obstruction requiring emergency airway intervention
- B. Spread to cavernous sinus causing brain abscess
- C. Mandibular osteomyelitis requiring jaw reconstruction
- D. Necrotising fasciitis of the neck and chest
- E. Septic shock from overwhelming bacterial infection
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Show the answer and cited explanation
According to TG, Ludwig angina involves risk of airway compromise, and severe local features that indicate risk of airway compromise include difficulty breathing and swelling of floor of mouth.
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