What’s a peritonsillar abscess?

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Peritonsillar abscess is a secondary infectious condition that occurs in the presence of tonsillitis. Caused by group A beta-hemolytic strep bacteria, a peritonsillar abscess forms when the infectious cat builds up in the delicate tissues of the tonsils. Treatment generally involves draining the abscess and giving antibiotics and pain relievers to fight infection and relieve discomfort. Complications associated with this condition include impaired breathing, cellulitis, and pneumonia.

Tonsillitis is a condition initially triggered by exposure to a bacterial or viral infection, such as group A strep, which leads to a sedimentation of the infection within the tonsils. Those who develop tonsillitis usually experience a sore throat, fever, and difficulty swallowing. As the infection progresses, it can impair the ability to breathe properly and can cause an individual to develop pronounced fatigue and pain.

Exposure to group A beta-hemolytic strep can sometimes complicate a tonsillitis infection by contributing to the development of a peritonsillar abscess. Essentially a physical accumulation of infectious material, a peritonsillar abscess can affect one or both tonsils depending on the severity of the infection. A diagnosis is usually made with a visual examination of the abscess which is verified by administering an aspiration procedure in which part of the abscess is removed for laboratory analysis.

In addition to the symptoms seen with tonsillitis, individuals who develop this complication often show progressive worsening of symptoms. Abscess formation can trigger a buildup of fluid that contributes to facial swelling that causes discomfort and impairs the ability to open the mouth or induces drooling. Others may also develop jaw sensitivity or hoarseness.

If left untreated, a peritonsillar abscess can contribute to the development of a number of complications. As the abscess grows, if it doesn’t rupture, it can block the airways and restrict breathing. The infection that contributed to the abscess formation can spread to other parts of the head, including the neck and jaw, leading to the development of cellulitis, which puts the individual at risk for meningitis. Additional complications can include pneumonia and pericarditis, which is inflammation of the sac that surrounds the heart, both of which can lead to organ failure and premature death.

Treatment for peritonsillar abscess generally involves a surgical procedure to drain the abscess and prevent further complications. In most cases, a tonsillectomy can also be performed once the abscess has been removed. Antibiotic and pain relievers may also be prescribed to clear the infection and relieve discomfort after surgery.

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