This medical condition stems from work in 1836 by famous German physiologist Karl Friedrich Wilhelm von Ludwig. It is a relatively rare infection which stems from the floor of the mouth and spreads rapidly causing elevation and displacement of the tongue.
This bacterial infection is most commonly caused by Streptococcus or Staphylococcus. It often occurs after a tooth abscess but can also be related to any of the following:
peritonsillar or parapharyngeal abscesses,
oral piercings
inflammation of the salivary glands especially the submandibular gland
poor dental hygiene
recent dental work
Early detection and quick treatment lead to most patients making a full recovery.