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Spontaneous retropharyngeal haematoma attributable to Epstein-Barr virus infection

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 June 2007

T. M. Jones*
Affiliation:
University Department of Otolaryngology, The Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Prescot Street, Liverpool, UK
G. O. Owen
Affiliation:
University Department of Otolaryngology, The Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Prescot Street, Liverpool, UK
P. Morar
Affiliation:
University Department of Otolaryngology, The Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Prescot Street, Liverpool, UK
*
Address for correspondence: Dr T. M. Jones, University Department of Otolaryngology, The Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Prescot Street, Liverpool L7 8XP.

Abstract

Life-threatening sequelae of Epstein-Barr virus infection are uncommon but may present as: local pharyngeal manifestations, splenic rupture, neurological and haematological disorders and altered hepatic function. We present a case of retropharyngeal haematoma with posterior hypopharyngeal wall necrosis, thrombocytopenia and altered clotting function as a result of Epstein-Barr virus infection. A review of the literature on retropharyngeal haematoma reveals this to be the only recorded case which can be directly attributed to Epstein-Barr virus infection.

Type
Clinical Records
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 1996

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