Peritonsillar Abscess — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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ModerateInfectious DiseasePeritonsillar AbscessRACP Paediatrics

A 4-year-old presents with painful swallowing, drooling, muffled voice, and trismus. On examination, there is a unilateral peritonsillar bulge with uvular deviation. What is the diagnosis?

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Correct answer: B — Peritonsillar abscess (quinsy)

Explanation lettering: C = shown as A · E = shown as B · D = shown as C · A = shown as D · B = shown as E

Peritonsillar abscess presents with severe sore throat, trismus (difficulty opening mouth), muffled (hot potato) voice, uvular deviation, and unilateral peritonsillar swelling. Management includes needle aspiration or I&D, IV antibiotics (benzylpenicillin + metronidazole or amoxicillin-clavulanate), and ENT referral.

Reference: RCH Melbourne – 2024 – Clinical Practice Guidelines: Peritonsillar Abscess