Inflammation on the right side of the neck, tongue displaced upward and backward, uvula deviated to the right. Which fascial space is most likely infected?

Correct answer: A. Lateral pharyngeal space (parapharyngeal)

• A. Correct. Lateral pharyngeal (parapharyngeal) space infection presents with unilateral neck swelling, trismus, medial displacement of the lateral pharyngeal wall with uvula deviation toward the AFFECTED side, and potential airway compromise. The classic triad: neck swelling, uvula deviation, tongue displacement.
• B. Sublingual space infection elevates the tongue but typically does not deviate the uvula or cause external neck swelling on one side.
• C. Submandibular space infection (Ludwig's angina) causes bilateral floor-of-mouth elevation; unilateral uvula deviation points to a pharyngeal space.
• D. Retropharyngeal space infection typically presents with neck stiffness, dysphagia, and muffled voice with posterior pharyngeal bulging — not unilateral uvula deviation.