- Etiology:
— Retropharyngeal space extends from skull base to T2
— Danger space is posterior to retropharyngeal space, extends from skull base to diaphragm
— Prevertebral space is posterior to danger space, extends from skull base to coccyx
— So danger space abscess is deep neck collection extending into mediastinum / below T2 - Complications: abscess in danger space can cause descending necrotizing mediastinitis, jugular vein thrombophlebitis / thrombosis, carotid artery rupture, pericarditis / tamponade, bronchial erosion / pyopneumothorax