A superficial infection in a region of the face can result in life-threatening sequelae.
Triangle delimiters:
(1) both corners of the mouth determining the base
(2) glabella as the apex
Pathophysiology:
(1) veins in the triangle are valveless and close to the skin surface
(2) there are a superficial and deep venous network
(3) veins communicate through the angular vein with the superior ophthalmic vein and through the inferior ophthalmic and pterygoid plexus with the cavernous sinus
(4) bacteria introduced into a vein the triangle while under pressure can easily reach the central nervous system
The classic scenario is after squeezing an acne-related furuncle.
The risk is increased if the infeciton is caused by a pathogenic bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes.
Complications:
(1) meningitis
(2) septic cavernous sinus thrombophlebitis
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