A 45-year-old male presents to the emergency department with severe neck swelling, difficulty swallowing, and muffled speech. On examination, you notice bilateral submandibular swelling and elevation of the tongue. What is the most likely diagnosis?
Epiglottitis
Mumps
Peritonsillar abscess
Ludwig's angina
The correct answer is Ludwig's angina. This condition is characterized by a rapidly spreading cellulitis of the floor of the mouth and neck, typically originating from an infected lower molar. Key symptoms include bilateral submandibular swelling, tongue elevation, dysphagia, and muffled speech ('hot potato voice'). It's crucial to recognize this condition quickly as it can lead to potentially fatal airway obstruction.
Peritonsillar abscess, while also a serious infection, typically presents with unilateral throat pain and swelling. Epiglottitis primarily affects the airway and causes severe sore throat and stridor. Mumps primarily affects the salivary glands and is less likely to cause severe neck swelling or difficulty swallowing in adults.
Bash is our AI bot, trained to help you pass your exam. AI Generated Content may display inaccurate information, always double-check anything important.
All Nursing and Medical Assistants Package plans include the following perks and exams .
Our pricing is simple. Full access to all certifications and exams in each package, for one price.
As many practice tests for as many topics as you want.
Use study mode non-stop, no limits.
Access to our AI assistant, Bash, trained to help you pass your exam.
Track your scores over time in study mode and report cards.
See how you improve over time, and where you need to focus.
All Nursing and Medical Assistants Package plans include unlimited access to the following study materials.
Create an account or sign in to access our study materials.