In a patient with peritonsillar abscess (quinsy), the most common site of pus accumulation is:

• A Between the superior pharyngeal constrictor and the prevertebral fascia
• B Superior pole of the tonsil — between the tonsil and its fibrous capsule anterosuperiorly ✓
• C Within the tonsillar crypt itself
• D Between the medial pterygoid muscle and the mandible

Explanation

Peritonsillar abscess forms in the peritonsillar space — the loose areolar tissue between the fibrous capsule of the tonsil and the superior pharyngeal constrictor muscle. The pus most commonly accumulates at the superior pole of the tonsil (upper peritonsillar space), causing characteristic uvular deviation to the opposite side, anterior pillar fullness, muffled 'hot potato' voice and trismus. Incision and drainage is performed at the point of maximum bulge at the superior pole.

Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.

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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.