In Vivo. 2026 Jan-Feb;40(1):663-676. doi: 10.21873/invivo.14228.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND/AIM: Metabolic comorbidities, such as diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension (HTN), can influence the severity and progression of oropharyngeal infections. This study investigated the impact of these conditions on inflammatory and metabolic markers in patients with severe infections.
PATIENTS AND METHODS: This retrospective study included patients diagnosed with peritonsillar phlegmon, laterocervical/submandibular abscess, and peritonsillar abscess. Metabolic [glycemia, body mass index (BMI)] and inflammatory [erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP)] parameters were analyzed based on the presence of comorbidities. Linear regression was employed to identify significant associations between variables.
RESULTS: Severe oropharyngeal infections were significantly associated with elevated glycemia (R2=0.961, p<0.001) and CRP levels (R2=0.983, p<0.001), indicating an exacerbated inflammatory and metabolic response. Hypertension was correlated with glycemia (p=0.036) but not with CRP (p=0.684). The presence of metabolic comorbidities did not significantly influence glycemia within the study group.
CONCLUSION: Patients with severe oropharyngeal infections exhibit significantly elevated glycemia and CRP, emphasizing the need for rigorous monitoring of these parameters. Hypertension was associated with glycemic alterations, suggesting a metabolic interplay. These findings underscore the importance of a personalized approach in managing oropharyngeal infections in patients with metabolic comorbidities.
PMID:41482361 | DOI:10.21873/invivo.14228