Question

Which of the following is most helpful in the diagnosis of a retropharyngeal abscess?

A. CBC with differential
B. Fever and a muffled voice on examination
C. CT of the neck with contrast
D. history of a recent throat infection

Answer 1

A CT scan of the neck with contrast is the most useful diagnostic tool for identifying a retropharyngeal abscess, providing definitive imaging of the abscess over other non-specific indicators.

Step-by-step explanation:

When diagnosing a retropharyngeal abscess, a CT scan of the neck with contrast (C. CT of the neck with contrast) is the most helpful diagnostic tool among the options provided. A complete blood count (CBC) with differential (A.) may show an elevated white cell count indicating infection, but it is not specific to a retropharyngeal abscess. Clinical symptoms such as fever and a muffled voice on examination (B.) are suggestive but are also non-specific and can be seen in various other conditions.

A history of a recent throat infection (D.) could be an indicator of causation but alone is not sufficient for diagnosis. Therefore, for a definitive diagnosis, a CT scan helps to visualize the extent of the abscess and its exact location in the neck. These imaging results, combined with clinical manifestations are vital for accurate diagnosis, which then guides effective treatment.