Imaging may be necessary to differentiate<unk>  abscess (PTA) from<unk> , epiglottitis, deep space neck infection
Intraoral or submandibular ultrasound distinguish PTA from<unk>  and guide needle aspiration
Submandibular ultrasound may be superior to intraoral ultrasound when limited by trismus or pain.
PTA will have echo-free cavity with irregular border<unk>  appears as homogenous area with no fluid collection
Do not recommend CT to differentiate PTA from<unk> 
Recommend CT with IV contrast to identify deep space neck infection
Submandibular ultrasound may be superior to intraoral ultrasound when limited by trismus or pain.
PTA will have echo-free cavity with irregular border<unk>  appears as homogenous area with no fluid collection
Recommend CT with IV contrast to identify deep space neck infection
Peritonsillar cellulitis
Streptococcal pharyngitis 
Epiglottitis
Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Retropharyngeal abscess
Diphtheria 
Peritonsillar abscess
Bacterial Tracheitis