The submandibular space was the most frequently encountered location of deep neck space infections. Mediastinitis was found in five patients. The most frequent causative bacteria were Streptococcus and Bacteroides species. All patients underwent intravenous antibiotic treatment and surgical therapy. Mediastinotomy was inevitable in five cases and thoracotomy in one case. All patients survived.

Today DNM most commonly arises from pharyngeal foci and mixed polymicrobial aerobic and anaerobic infections. Reduced tissue oxygenation and impaired immune function promotes its development. Most cases of DNM are limited to the upper mediastinum and can be adequately drained by a transcervical approach. Formal thoracotomy should be reserved for cases extending below the plane of the tracheal bifurcation. Although DNM remains an aggressive infection with high morbidity, a favorable outcome can now be obtained in 85% of patients, even with this selective approach. Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial.

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Dysontogenetic cysts should be considered in differential diagnosis of tumours of the floor of the mouth. Diagnostic and surgical management depends first of all on size and location of dysontogenetic cysts.