Axial STIR MRI sequence demonstrates hyperintensity (oedema) in multiple neck spaces including masticator space adjacent to the lateral pterygoid muscle (blue arrow). There is mucosal congestion within the nasopharynx (red arrow) with high signal noted posteriorly in the longus capitis muscle (green arrow) suggestive of extension through the retropharyngeal space. Note fluid secretions within the right mastoid air cells (yellow arrow). (For interpretation of the references to colour in this Figure legend, the reader is referred to the web version of this article).