Peritonsillar abscess

Peritonsillar abscess, also called PTA or Quinsy, is a recognised complication of tonsillitis and consists of a collection of pus beside the tonsil (peritonsillar space).

Related Topics:
Tonsillitis - Pus - Tonsil

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It causes great pain, fever, malaise and is associated with tender, swollen lymph nodes. Whilst these signs may be present in tonsillitis itself, a PTA sould be specifically considered if there is limited ability to open the mouth (trismus).

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Treatment is, as for all abscesses, through surgical incising and drainage of the pus, thereby relieving the pain of the stretched tissues. Antibiotics are also given to treat the infection.

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