mediastinitis

Mediastinitis is inflammation of the tissues in the mid-chest, or mediastinum. It can be either acute or chronic. It is thought to be due to four different etiologies:direct contamination

hematogenous or lymphatic spread

extension of infection from the neck or retroperitoneum

extension from the lung or pleuraAcute mediastinitis is usually caused by bacteria and is most often due to perforation of the esophagus. As the infection can progress rapidly, this is considered a serious condition.

Chronic ...