Guttural Pouch Empyema

Caused by:
- URT infections, especially pathogenic Streptococcus equi (can by asymptomatic carriers)
- Retropharyngeal abscess
- Trauma (e.g. stylohyoid fracture)
Chronic cases may develop chondroids (inspissated pus, rock hard, from 'cottage cheese')

1. Guttural Pouch Empyema:

- Purulent material in pouch. Respiratory infections can extend into the pouches from the pharynx or from retropharyngeal lymph nodes.

- Secretion/pus accumulates. The pouch distends forming a palpable, fluctuating visible swelling behind the jaw.

- Seen as a fluid line in standing lateral radiograph of guttural pouches. Can be surgically drained or with catheter.

- Material can become chondroid - hard concretions of pus - removed by surgery.

Test yourself with the Guttural Pouches Pathology Flashcards