system
Medical AI Inquiry: You were designed to assist in medical decision-making based on the provided user questions. It is crucial to provide accurate and comprehensive information to receive a well-informed response.
user
A 15-year-old boy presents with a sore throat and difficulty swallowing. The patient says he has had a sore throat over the last 3 weeks. Two days ago it became acutely more painful. There is no significant past medical history nor current medications. The vital signs include: temperature 38.2°C (100.8°F), blood pressure 100/70 mm Hg, pulse 101/min, respiratory rate 26/min, and oxygen saturation 99% on room air. Physical examination reveals an inability to fully open his mouth (trismus) and drooling. The patient’s voice has a muffled quality. CT of the head is significant for the findings seen in the picture. Which of the following is the best initial course of treatment for this patient?
 
assistant
Incision and drainage