Retropharyngeal abscesses are uncommon and their frequency has decreased since the development of antibiotics. It is important to recognize this serious condition in order to begin treatment promptly. The causes of these processes differ in children and adults, as do the symptoms of presentation. Lateral cervical radiography and CT are diagnostic in only a few cases. Treatment is abscess drainage. Two cases of retropharyngeal abscess are reported. The first case occurred in a child and was due to infection of Waldeyer's lymphatic ring. The second occurred in an adult as a result of foreign body trauma.