Peritonsillar abscess and parapharyngeal abscess

Question 1

define peritonsillar abscess (quinsy)

Answer 1

arises when there is a bacterial infection with trapped pus
-forming an abscess in the region of the tonsils

it is a complicaiotn of untreated or partially treated tonsilitis
-although it can arise without tonsillitis

Question 2

who gets peritonsillar abscess (quinsy)

Answer 2

just as frequently in all ages
(this is unlike tonsillitis which is much more common in children)

Question 3

pressenation of peritonsillar abscess (quinsy)(just revision of tonsillits syx) 6

Answer 3

similar to tonsiliits

sore throat

painful swallowing

fever

neck pain

referred ear pain

swollen tender LNs

Question 4

specific MAIN SYMPTOMS of peritonsillar abscess (quinsy) 3

Answer 4

trismus - patient unable to open their mouth

change in voice
-due to pharyngeal swelling
- in textbook described as ‘hot potato voice’
-swelling and erythema in area beside tonsils

Question 5

what is the common cause of peritonsillar abscess (quinsy) 3

Answer 5

usually bacteria

most comon group A strep

(also staph A and haemophilus influenza)

Question 6

Mx of peritonsillar abscess (quinsy) 4

Answer 6

referred to hospital under ENT teams care
-for needle aspiration
or
-surgical incision and drainage to remove the pus from the abscess

also need Abx before and after surgery
-usually give broad spec initial - co-amoxiclav

some ENT surgery give steroids (dexamethasone) to settle inflam and help recovery