Peritonsillar abscess

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Lymphatic system

Throat anatomy

Quinsy; Abscess - peritonsillar

One or both tonsils become infected. The infection may spread over the roof of the mouth (palate), and to the neck and chest, including the lungs. Swollen tissues may block the airway, which is a life-threatening medical emergency.

Symptoms of peritonsillar abscess include:

• Sore throat (may be severe)
• Tender glands of the jaw and throat
• Facial swelling
• Drooling
• Headache
• Fever
• Chills
• Difficulty and pain with opening the mouth
• Hoarseness (occasionally)

An examination of the throat and neck may reveal redness and swelling of one or both tonsils, throat, neck, and chest.

Tests may be done to figure out what type of bacteria is causing the infection. Aspiration of the abscess usually shows fluid containing pus.

Review Date: 02/12/2007
Reviewed By: Alden J. Pearl, M.D., Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Otolaryngology, State University of New York Health Science Center at Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.