Abscess in throat tissues behind posterior pharyngeal wall. Also see Abscesses programs.Encyclopedia Entry for Retropharyngeal Abscess :Retropharyngeal abscess. Retropharyngeal abscess most often affects children under age 5, but it can occur at any age. Infected material (pus) builds up in the space around the tissues at the back of the throat. This can occur during or very soon after a throat infection.Symptoms include: Breathing difficulty Difficulty swallowing Drooling High fever High-pitched sound when inhaling ( stridor ) Muscles between the ribs pull in when breathing ( intercostal retractions ) Severe throat pain Difficulty turning the head.The health care provider will perform a physical exam and look inside the throat. The provider may gently rub the back of the throat with a cotton swab. This is to take a sample of tissue to check it more closely. It is called a throat culture. Other tests may include: Complete blood count (CBC) CT scan of the neck X-ray of the neck Fiber optic endoscopy.Surgery is needed to drain the infected area. Corticosteroids are sometimes given to reduce airway swelling. High-dose antibiotics are given through a vein ( intravenous ) to treat the infection. The airway will be protected so that it does not become completely blocked by the swelling.It is important to get medical help right away. This condition can lead to blockage of the airway. This is life threatening. With prompt treatment, a full recovery is expected.Complications may include: Airway obstruction Aspiration Mediastinitis Osteomyelitis.Call your provider if you or your child develops a high fever with severe throat pain. Get medical help right away if you have: Breathing trouble High-pitched breathing sounds (stridor) Retraction of the muscles between the ribs when breathing Difficulty turning the head.Prompt diagnosis and treatment of a sore throat or upper respiratory infection can prevent this problem.Throat anatomy Throat anatomy Oropharynx Oropharynx.Melio FR, Berge LR. Upper respiratory tract infections.