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Johns Hopkins Symptoms and Remedies

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Peritonsillar Abscess Quinsy

What is it?

Peritonsillar abscess (also known as quinsy) is a pusproducing infection occurring in the cavity at the back of the throat, near the tonsils.Quinsy is usually a complication of tonsillitis, a bacterial infection of the tonsils. The infection may spread to the soft palate (the back of the roof of the mouth) or may travel down the throat into the chest. If left untreated, the infection may attack the membranes that surround the heart and lungs, known as the pericardium and the pleura, respectively. Infections of these membranes may eventually produce serious, even life-threatening, complications, including fluid accumulation around the heart or lungs, chest pain, and breathing difficulty (see Pericarditis). Also, in rare cases, swelling on the roof of the mouth may become severe enough to interfere with breathing. Although peritonsillar abscess occurs more often in young adults, it is uncommon even among that age group. This disorder will not respond well to oral antibiotics, and surgical drainage or aspiration with a needle is often needed. An abscess may recur if the tonsils are not removed.

What Causes It?

  • Bacterial infection of the tonsils is the underlying cause of peritonsillar abscess.

Prevention

  • Obtain prompt treatment for sore throats and other upper respiratory infections.

Diagnosis

  • Examination of the throat and palate is needed.

How to Treat It

  • Antibiotics administered to treat peritonsillar abscess should be taken for the full term prescribed.
  • In some cases, intravenous antibiotics and fluid may be needed.
  • Surgery or needle aspiration may be necessary to drain a large, pus-filled abscess.
  • Pain relievers may be taken as necessary to reduce fever and pain.
  • Patients should gargle with warm salt water to soothe a sore throat during recovery and consume plenty of additional nonalcoholic liquids.
  • Surgery to remove the tonsils (tonsillectomy) may be advised to prevent recurrence of peritonsillar abscess, but the operation is usually delayed until the infected abscess has subsided.

When to Call a Doctor

  • Call a doctor if you develop symptoms of a peritonsillar abscess.