BCEN CEN Practice Question

These findings are characteristic of Ludwig's angina-a rapidly spreading cellulitis of the floor of the mouth that often follows an infected lower molar. Bilateral submandibular swelling, tongue elevation, dysphagia, and a muffled voice indicate impending airway compromise. Peritonsillar abscess usually causes unilateral tonsillar swelling and uvular deviation. Epiglottitis causes severe sore throat with stridor, and mumps produces parotid gland swelling rather than floor-of-mouth cellulitis.