Ludwig’s Angina in the Emergency Department: Epidemiology, Diagnosis, and Outcomes: a retrospective study in Somalia

Abstract Objectives This study aims to document the demographic distribution of Ludwig’s angina; evaluate patients who presented at Mogadishu Somali Turkey Training and Research Hospital in Mogadishu, Somalia, over one year; and analyse the causes, complications, length of hospital stay, treatment, outcomes, and management approaches used. Materials and Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on 90 patients diagnosed with Ludwig’s angina at Mogadishu Somali Turkey Training and Research Hospital. Demographic and clinical data, including age, sex, cause, referral source, duration of symptoms, length of hospital stay, clinical presentation, and treatment modality, were recorded and analysed. Results Ludwig’s angina was more prevalent in males (77.8%), with an average patient age of 39.13 years. The leading cause was odontogenic infection (65.5%), with periodontal abscesses accounting for 34.4% of the cases. Surgical decompression was performed in 38.9% of patients, whereas targeted antibiotic therapy was administered in 46.7% of patients. Complications were observed in 48.9% of the patients, with septicemia being the most common (36.7%). A statistically significant correlation was found between prolonged hospital stays and the severity of clinical manifestations (B = 0.500, p < 0.001). No mortality was recorded in this study. Conclusion Ludwig’s angina is a severe infection requiring urgent recognition and intervention to prevent life-threatening complications. Advances in treatment have significantly reduced mortality rates, but timely airway management and surgical drainage remain essential. Special attention should be given to children and elderly individuals to maintain proper oral hygiene,andregular dental checkups should be scheduled to prevent such serious infections.