Fatal mediastinitis secondary to odontogenic infection.

A case of necrotizing mediastinitis that caused death in a 38-year-old man has been reported. The cause of his infection was proved, both radiographically and clinically, to be dental infection associated with the lower molars and their supporting structures. A diffuse cellulitis involving the submandibular, masticator, and parapharyngeal spaces ensued. Sudden onset of severe pleuritic chest pains and a 100% pneumothorax of the left lung developed, which ultimately led to his death.