"Ludwig angina is named after Wilhelm Frederick von Ludwig (1790-1865) 6, a German physician who first described this condition in 1836 2. Notably, he died in December 1865 from 'non-specific neck inflammation' which some believe was Ludwig angina 4."
"Most cases (85%) are thought to originate from an untreated odontogenic infection (most commonly the second and third mandibular molars 7), mainly Streptococcus spp., Staphylococcus spp., and Bacteroides spp. 4. Of the other 15% of cases, causes include 4:"
"Usually, the patient has signs and symptoms of preceding dental infection. Due to the anatomy of the submandibular, sublingual and submental spaces and the mylohyoid muscle, spread of infection can occur between these spaces. Subsequent swelling can displace the tongue superiorly and posteriorly leading to potential airway obstruction and asphyxiation. When severe, the floor of mouth swelling can also cause trismus, odynophagia and dysphagia. The classic signs are a brawny, tender non-fluctuant induration of the submandibular space, with an elevation of the tongue."
"Usually, the patient has signs and symptoms of preceding dental infection. Due to the anatomy of the submandibular, sublingual and submental spaces and the mylohyoid muscle, spread of infection can occur between these spaces. Subsequent swelling can displace the tongue superiorly and posteriorly leading to potential airway obstruction and asphyxiation. When severe, the floor of mouth swelling can also cause trismus, odynophagia and dysphagia. The classic signs are a brawny, tender non-fluctuant induration of the submandibular space, with an elevation of the tongue."