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Peritonsillar abscess — ABEM Board MCQ

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EasyHead/Neck/ENT/Ophthalmology emergenciesPeritonsillar abscessABEM Board

A 25-year-old man arrives with sore throat and muffled voice. Triage acuity is ESI 3; T 101.7 F, HR 112/min. He has trismus, drooling, unilateral tonsillar swelling, and uvular deviation away from the swelling. He can handle secretions. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: E — Peritonsillar abscess

Fever, trismus, muffled voice, unilateral tonsillar swelling, and uvular deviation indicate peritonsillar abscess.

Reference: AAO-HNS tonsillitis/peritonsillar abscess guidance