Imaging in lingual abscess: a case report

Background: Lingual abscess corresponds to an infection that manifests itself as a painful swelling in the tongue with purulent material inside. This is a rare entity and the information available in the literature is limited and based on clinical case reports. Therefore, the diagnosis, etiology, clinical manifestations, and treatment are not fully defined. Case presentation: The aim of this work was to describe the imaging of a case of lingual abscess, focusing on imaging evaluation using ultrasound and computed tomography (CT), and comparing the diagnostic utility of both modalities in smaller lingual abscesses. This case was treated with antibiotics and adequate drainage was performed, with good evolution. Conclusions: Tongue abscess is a rare pathology due to the various mechanisms that the tongue has to avoid infections; however, it is a diagnosis that we must consider. CT may be sufficient to diagnose it on imaging, but in smaller lesions, ultrasound with a high-frequency transducer provides more information.