Arch Otolaryngol
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The use of antibiotics in suppurative otitis media has greatly diminished the incidence of complications. Deep neck abscess arising from acute mastoiditis, a disease thoroughly described by Frederick Bezold early in this century, has become rare. In the last three years we have treated five cases of deep neck abscess of otogenic origin at our hospital. ⋯ In four of the cases, delay in diagnosis occurred because of failure to recognize the disorder. Computed tomography has proved valuable in the anatomic diagnosis and surgical planning. Renewed familiarity with the clinical presentations and pathogenesis of this now uncommon condition may prevent delay in diagnosis and initiation of therapy.