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Medical Emergencies · single question

The spreading upper-face cellulitis is approaching the eye. What is the most appropriate immediate management?

  1. Perform incision and drainage in the dental chair
  2. Refer to the emergency room
  3. Prescribe a topical antibiotic and review in one week
  4. Reassure the patient and take no action
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. Refer to the emergency room

  • A. Incision and drainage is for a LOCALIZED, fluctuant abscess. Cellulitis has no drainable pus pocket, and cutting into the danger triangle risks worsening spread.
  • B. Correct. Cellulitis near the eye threatens orbital involvement and cavernous sinus thrombosis — a medical emergency. The patient needs urgent referral for IV antibiotics and inpatient management.
  • C. A topical antibiotic with a one-week recheck dangerously under-treats a rapidly spreading facial infection near the orbit.
  • D. Doing nothing risks vision loss and intracranial spread.

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