Final answer:
Trismus and contralateral uvular deviation differentiate a peritonsillar abscess from a retropharyngeal abscess, but these symptoms may be absent in children. The peritonsillar abscess is a pus collection behind the tonsils, while a retropharyngeal abscess is a deeper throat infection.
Step-by-step explanation:
Trismus and contralateral uvular deviation are helpful to differentiate peritonsillar abscess from retropharyngeal abscess but may be absent in children. These symptoms are not typically associated with strep throat, mononucleosis, tonsillitis, laryngitis, allergic rhinitis, or sinusitis. A peritonsillar abscess is a collection of pus behind the tonsils, and its symptoms may include severe sore throat, trismus, and a deviated uvula. A retropharyngeal abscess is a deeper infection in the throat's posterior region and may present similar symptoms but is more dangerous, especially in children.
The nasopharynx serves only as an airway, and the pharyngeal tonsils, or adenoids, are located at the superior portion of the nasopharynx. These tonsils contain a rich supply of lymphocytes and help trap and destroy pathogens. During swallowing, the uvula and soft palate work to block the entrance to the nasopharynx, and the larynx is lifted to prevent food from entering the airway.
Therefore, the correct response to the student's question is: a) Peritonsillar abscess, retropharyngeal abscess.