Background

Lingual abscess is an infrequent pathology since lesions on the tongue rarely become infected. Therefore, it is an entity with limited information in the literature, which comes mainly from clinical case reports [1].

Clinical manifestations and physical examination are quite nonspecific; consequently, imaging support is essential for proper diagnosis and timely treatment [2]. We present a clinical case in which the image was crucial to define a course of action but unlike what has been reported in other cases, the computed tomography was suggestive but not conclusive, and the ultrasound ended up defining the diagnosis.

The aim of this study is to describe a case of lingual abscess in a patient, focusing on imaging evaluation using ultrasound and computed tomography (CT), and comparing the diagnostic utility of both modalities in smaller lingual abscesses.

Case presentation

This was the case of a 24-year-old male patient, of Caucasian origin, university student, with no diseases, no history of immunosuppression, or other personal history of interest, presented with progressive pain on the right lateral border of the tongue for five days, accompanied by swelling for two days. The patient reported no history of trauma or previous wounds. During his initial evaluation, a lingual tumor was suspected, and he was treated with oral corticosteroids and analgesics which provided slight relief of his symptoms, pending deferred laboratory testing and evaluation by a specialist to define medical conduct. However, a day later, the patient experienced persistent swelling and a recurrence of pain. On physical examination, a reactive right submandibular lymphadenopathy was palpable and erythema stood out on the lingual mucosa of the right lateral border associated with an indurated painful area. A contrasted CT scan of the neck was requested, which showed nonspecific tongue lesion in the affected area (Fig. 1). It was suggested to characterize it with a tongue ultrasound. The examination was performed with a high-frequency linear transducer (22 MHz) and a small surface or “hockey stick” type, which allowed specific sectors to be better evaluated by providing high-resolution images, which were compatible with an abscess in formation, measuring approximately 9 × 8 × 5 mm (Fig. 2).

Fig. 1
figure 1

Computed tomography (CT) scan of the neck with intravenous contrast: showed hypodense area outlined by a slightly hyperdense area on the contrast. The lesion was not well defined and was inconclusive

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Fig. 2
figure 2

Ultrasound with high-frequency transducer (24 MHz): showed marked inflammatory signs of the lateral edge of the tongue were evident, with a thickening of the mucosa and increased volume of the surrounding tissue. A partially delimited heterogeneous hypoechoic content collection was depicted (A), without vascularization or foreign body (B), with characteristics of an abscess in formation

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The therapeutic decision to start antibiotic treatment with intravenous ampicillin—sulbactam was made, followed by the oral overlap to amoxicillin—clavulanic acid until completing 10 days. After 48 h, an opening of the abscess was observed on physical examination and samples were taken for culture (Fig. 3). In the culture, there was development of a variety of gram-positive cocci (streptococci) corresponding to the usual bacterial microbiota. Five days later, a clear remission of the lingual abscess was evident and the laboratory only showed elevation of inflammatory parameters that normalized after treatment, and since there were no longer inflammatory signs or symptoms, clinical follow-up was decided without a new image, concluding in a medical discharge.

Fig. 3
figure 3

Purulent content was drained with digital pressure (48 h after starting antibiotic therapy)

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Discussion

Lingual abscess is an unusual condition characterized by infection and accumulation of purulent material within the tongue. Despite being a rare entity, it presents diagnostic challenges due to limited literature and clinical reports [2, 3]. Our case report aimed to elucidate the imaging characteristics of a lingual abscess using both ultrasound and computed tomography (CT), highlighting the efficacy of ultrasound in cases where CT findings may be inconclusive, particularly in smaller abscesses.

The aim of this study is to describe a case of lingual abscess in a patient, focusing on imaging evaluation using ultrasound and computed tomography (CT), and comparing the diagnostic utility of both modalities in smaller lingual abscesses.

Comparative analysis with previously reported cases reveals a distinct feature of our case: the smaller size of the abscess [3,4,5]. In contrast to larger abscesses where CT imaging has proven more informative, our case illustrates the limitations of CT in visualizing smaller lesions. This discrepancy underscores the importance of utilizing alternative imaging modalities such as ultrasound, especially in cases where CT fails to provide definitive diagnostic clarity.

The diagnostic challenge posed by lingual abscesses lies in their varied etiology and clinical presentation. While trauma, foreign bodies, and dental diseases are commonly associated with abscess formation [2, 6, 7], identifying the exact cause can be elusive. Additionally, the tongue's robust vascular supply and muscular structure often mitigate the development of infections, further complicating diagnosis [3, 5].

In our case, initial suspicion of a lingual tumor prompted CT imaging, which yielded inconclusive results. Subsequent ultrasound examination with a high-frequency transducer provided clearer visualization of the abscess, facilitating accurate diagnosis and guiding therapeutic intervention. This highlights the complementary role of ultrasound in cases where CT fails to provide definitive diagnostic insight, particularly in smaller abscesses where resolution may be limited [3, 8].

Comparative studies with larger lingual abscesses underscore the diagnostic challenges posed by size discrepancies. While CT imaging remains a valuable tool in diagnosing larger abscesses, our case demonstrates the utility of ultrasound in smaller lesions, where higher resolution and clearer delineation of abscess boundaries are essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. Therefore, lingual abscesses present diagnostic challenges, particularly in cases where imaging findings may be inconclusive. Our case highlights the efficacy of ultrasound in visualizing smaller abscesses, complementing CT imaging and facilitating accurate diagnosis and treatment. Further research and comparative studies are warranted to elucidate the optimal diagnostic approach for lingual abscesses of varying sizes.

Conclusions

Lingual abscess is a rare entity due to the various mechanisms that the tongue has to avoid infections; however, it is a diagnosis that we must consider. Treatment is mainly based on draining the contents and antibiotics. Although the diagnosis may be clinical, laboratory tests, fluid culture, and images may be necessary to confirm this pathology. In large lesions with suggestive symptoms, CT imaging may be sufficient, but in smaller lesions, ultrasound with a high-frequency transducer provides more information. In any case, follow-up is necessary to observe the evolution of the injury.