Peritonsillar Abscess

Question 1

What is Peritonsillar Abscess also known as?

Where is the fluid collection located?

Answer 1

Quinsy

• pus between peritonsillar capsule and superior constrictor muscle

Question 2

What organism is the most common cause of disease?

What are 3 other organisms that can lead to abscess formation?

Answer 2

Most common: Group A beta-hemolytic Streptococcus (S. pyogenes)

• others: Staph, pneumococcus, hemophilic organisms

need coverage for aerobic and anaerobic organisms –> growth is typically mixed

Question 3

What age is peritonsillar abscess rare?

Answer 3

< 5 years old

Question 4

What is trismus and odynophagia?

Answer 4

Trismus = inability to open mouth

Odynophagia = painful swallowing

Question 5

What are 3 physical exam findings that help make the diagnosis of peritonsillar abscess?

Answer 5

1. unilateral swelling of peritonsillar area
2. non-resolving tonsillitis with persistent unilateral tonsillar enlargement
3. bulge on unilateral soft palate with anterior displacement of ipsilateral tonsil

diagnosis typically made clinically

Question 6

What antibiotics are typically used to medically treat Peritonsillar Abscess?

Answer 6

Amoxicillin/Clavulanate or Ampicillin/Sulbactam

Clindamycin