A Rare Infratemporal Fossa Abscess of the Lateral Pterygoid

The infratemporal fossa (ITF) contains many critical neurovascular structures and the muscles of mastication. Infections of the ITF are rare and carry significant pathologic implications due to nearby structures. Abscesses of the ITF often occur due to odontogenic spread and present with trismus and facial pain. We present the case of a 26-year-old male with an uncommon ITF abscess of the lateral pterygoid following maxillary wisdom tooth extraction. The abscess resolved following bedside and operative intraoral drainage in addition to intravenous antibiotic therapy. We highlight the rarity of lateral pterygoid abscesses and the importance of distinguishing ITF abscesses from other similarly presenting conditions such as temporomandibular joint dysfunction.