Differential Diagnosis for Uvula Deviation

• Single most likely diagnosis:
  • Peritonsillar abscess: This condition is a collection of pus behind the tonsils that can cause uvula deviation due to the swelling and inflammation it produces. It's a common and well-known cause of uvula deviation.
• Other Likely diagnoses:
  • Tonsillar abscess or tonsillitis: Similar to peritonsillar abscess, an abscess or infection of the tonsils themselves can cause swelling that leads to uvula deviation.
  • Retropharyngeal abscess: An abscess in the tissues in the back of the throat can cause swelling that pushes the uvula to one side.
  • Quinsy: Also known as a peritonsillar abscess, this is essentially the same condition mentioned as the single most likely diagnosis but is worth reiterating due to its likelihood.
• Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.):
  • Epiglottitis: Although less common, epiglottitis is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition that can cause swelling of the epiglottis, potentially affecting the position of the uvula.
  • Retropharyngeal hematoma: Bleeding into the tissues at the back of the throat can cause rapid swelling, which may lead to uvula deviation and is a medical emergency.
• Rare diagnoses:
  • Nasopharyngeal tumors: Although rare, tumors in the nasopharynx can grow large enough to cause deviation of the uvula.
  • Branchial cleft cysts: These are congenital anomalies that can form cysts in the neck and, if large enough or if they become infected, could potentially cause uvula deviation.
  • Thyroglossal duct cysts: Similar to branchial cleft cysts, these congenital anomalies can form cysts, typically in the midline of the neck, but if they are large or become infected, they could potentially cause uvula deviation, although this would be extremely rare.