Retropharyngeal abscess is not a common disease nowadays due to a widespread use of antibiotics, improved diagnostic methods and adequate care. However, its severity is not so much reduced as expected. The major reason for this is masking effect of antibiotics on the typical progress of disease. From 1980 to 1989, we have experienced 23 cases of retropharyngeal abscess. Clinical analysis of these cases was performed and the results are as follow : 1) No significant sexual predilection was found(M : F=11 : 12). 2) Most cases were under 7 years old(91.3%). 3) The most common pathogen was staphylococcus aureus(39%). 4) The most common precipitating disease was URI(69.7%). 5) The presenting symptoms and signs were fever(65%), dyspnea(35%), sore throat(35%) and dysphagia(26%). 6) No complications or sequalae occurred following treatment.