The spread of infection and the development of an abscess is the result of factors pertaining to host resistence and microbial influences. Host resistance is described by local defenses, cellular, and humoral immunity. Microbial factors are determined by virulence and number of invading organisms. The pathogenic potential changes as the aforementioned factors change. When the microbial factors dominate and the host’s resistance cannot contain the invading microorganisms, the spread of infection will prevail. The inflammatory reaction is then initiated and phagocytic cells and lymphocytes are called into action. Polymorphonuclear leukocytes eliminate bacteria through phagocytosis. Inflammatory mediators such as histamine, serotonin, leukotrienes, prostaglandins, and lysosomal components are released. Mononuclear phagocytes, monocytes, and macrophages will next become involved in the inflammatory process and are involved in
