A cellulitis of the floor of the mouth and neck originating in the submandibular space, commonly from a dental infection, describes which condition?

• A. Otitis media
• B. Sinusitis
• C. Dental infection causing submandibular space cellulitis
• D. Pharyngitis

Answer: (C)

This scenario points to Ludwig's angina, a rapidly spreading cellulitis that starts in the submandibular space and involves the floor of the mouth and neck, most commonly from a dental infection of the lower molars. The dental origin is key and explains why the infection expands into the submandibular space and then the floor beneath the tongue, risking airway obstruction. This pattern distinguishes it from other ENT infections: otitis media affects the middle ear, sinusitis involves the paranasal sinuses, and pharyngitis involves the throat, none of which classically produce a floor-of-mouth cellulitis originating in the submandibular space. Understanding the odontogenic source and the specific facial space involved helps anticipate complications and guides management, including securing the airway, broad-spectrum antibiotics covering oral flora (including anaerobes), and drainage of the involved spaces with definitive dental treatment to remove the source.