Parapharyngeal space abscess characteristically displaces which structure medially on examination and imaging?
- A Uvula
- B Posterior pharyngeal wall
- C Lateral pharyngeal wall and tonsil, displacing them medially ✓
- D Epiglottis
Correct answer: C. Lateral pharyngeal wall and tonsil, displacing them medially
Explanation
The parapharyngeal (lateral pharyngeal) space lies lateral to the pharynx and medial to the parotid and pterygoid muscles. When infected, it bulges the lateral oropharyngeal wall and the adjacent tonsil medially and anteriorly into the pharyngeal lumen, in contrast to peritonsillar abscess (which displaces the uvula to the contralateral side) and retropharyngeal abscess (which causes posterior pharyngeal wall bulging). Epiglottitis involves the supraglottis, not the parapharyngeal space.
Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.