Moreira, FMiranda, DPereira, SRodrigues, BDias, L2015-04-022015-04-022014Acta Otorrinolaringol Gallega 2014;7(1): 86-96http://hdl.handle.net/10400.23/871Introduction: Deep neck infections (ICP) are serious diseases whose complexity and location make diagnosis and treatment difficult. Familiarity with the anatomy of the cervical fasciae and cervical spaces is critical to understand the nature of these emerging infections. The aim of this study is to conduct a descriptive analysis of a hospital series comprised 129 cases of ICP. Materials and Methods: The authors performed a retrospective study of 129 cases of ICP treated in ENT Department of Braga’s Hospital between January 2011 and December 2012. Results: The odontogenic and tonsillar causes were the most frequently found. The spaces most affected were the peri-tonsillar, submandibular and parapharyngeal. There was an increased incidence of ICP from 2011(4,27 per 100 000 habitants) to 2012 (7,45 per 100 000 habitants). Conclusions: The ICP are a medical and surgical emergency. We must be vigilant in risk groups (elderly, patients with diabetes mellitus or other co-morbidities) where the rate of complications is higher.porInfecções BacterianasPescoçojournal article