Peritonsillar Abscess
by
Cynthia M. Johnson, MA DefinitionPeritonsillar abscess is a pocket of pus. It happens on one side of the throat.
CausesThe abscess is caused by a bacteria. It is usually a complication of another illness such as strep throat. Risk FactorsThis problem is more common in males and people aged 20 to 40 years of age. Other things that may raise the risk of this problem are:
SymptomsProblems may be:
DiagnosisThe doctor will ask about your symptoms and health history. A physical exam will be done. It will focus on the throat. This is often enough to make the diagnosis. Tissue may be tested if the diagnosis is not clear. This can be done with needle aspiration. Images may also be taken of the neck. This can be done with: TreatmentThe goal is to treat the infection. This can be done with: Supportive CareAn IV may be used to provide fluids and nutrition to people who have problems swallowing. MedicationMedicine may be given to:
AspirationThe abscess may be punctured with a needle to drain fluid. SurgeryAn incision may be made to drain fluid from the abscess. People who are not helped by these methods may need to have their tonsils removed. This can be done with a tonsillectomy. PreventionThe risk of this problem may be lowered by getting treated for throat infections right away. RESOURCES:American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head, and Neck Surgery http://www.entnet.org Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians https://familydoctor.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:The College of Family Physicians of Canada http://www.cfpc.ca Health Canada http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca References:
Peritonsillar abscess. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
https://www.dynamed.com/condition/peritonsillar-abscess. Accessed August 16, 2021.
Peritonsillar abscess. KidsHealth—Nemours Foundation website. Available at: https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/peritonsillar-abscess.html. Accessed August 16, 2021. Last reviewed July 2021 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
James Cornell, MD Last Updated: 8/16/2021 | |
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