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Alternative names Return to top
Quinsy; Abscess - peritonsillarDefinition Return to top
Peritonsillar abscess is a collection of infected material in the area around the tonsils. See also retropharyngeal abscess.Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
Peritonsillar abscess is a complication of tonsillitis. Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus is usually the cause of peritonsillar abscesses. One or both tonsils becomes infected and pus forms and may spread from the tonsil to the tissues around it. The infection may spread over the roof of the mouth (palate), and to the neck and chest, including the lungs. Swollen tissues may obstruct the airway, which would be a life-threatening medical emergency.Symptoms Return to top
Signs and tests Return to top
An examination of the throat and neck may reveal redness and swelling of the tonsil(s), palate, throat, neck, and skin of the chest.Treatment Return to top
Treatment is aimed at curing the infection and relieving symptoms. Antibiotics may be given if the infection is bacterial. Surgical drainage of the abscess by aspiration or incision will be performed. Analgesics may be used, if needed, for pain. Surgery to remove the tonsils (tonsillectomy) may be considered.Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
Peritonsillar abscess usually responds to treatment, although it may recur.Complications Return to top
Calling your health care provider Return to top
Call your health care provider if you have had tonsillitis and symptoms of peritonsillar abscess develop.Prevention Return to top
Prompt and complete treatment of tonsillitis, especially bacterial tonsillitis, may help prevent formation of abscess. Update Date: 7/30/2003 Updated by: Jason Newman, M.D., Department of Otolaryngology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Group, Washington, DC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |