Trans-Cervical Ultrasound Imaging of the Adult Palatine Tonsils

Trans-cervical ultrasound of the palatine tonsils provides a non-invasive technique to image the adult tonsils and the associated peritonsilar space to investigate intratonsillar and peritonsillar abscesses. The peritonsilar space, where peritonsillar cellulitis and abscesses are located is readily identified sonographically between the palatine tonsil and the superior constrictor muscle, which can be used as a helpful sonographic landmark. An understanding of the sonographic anatomy, technique, landmarks and imaging appearances is essential to correctly perform and interpret ultrasound imaging of the adult palatine tonsils which is unpacked in this narrative review.