A 76-year-old woman who appears well presents to you with complaints of low-grade fever, runny nose, and cough that have lasted for 1 day. These symptoms were preceded by pain on swallowing (odynophagia) and difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) for the last 3 weeks.
Figures 1 and 2 show her pharynx.
Figure 1.
Figure 2.
The swelling in the soft palate is firm and nontender. Her lungs are clear.
What would be your next step in the process of evaluation and treatment?
- Admit her to the hospital for intravenous antibiotics.
- Inquire about her immunization status and ask about her exposure to farm animals.
- Order computed tomography (CT).
- Consult an otolaryngologist for possible incision and drainage in the operating room.
This question appears in Med-Challenger Internal Medicine Exam Review with CME
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