Peritonsillar abscess

Alternative names:

abscess - peritonsillar; quinsy

Symptoms:

• sore throat (may be severe)
• tender glands of the jaw and throat
• facial swelling
• drooling
• headache
• fever
• chills
• hoarseness (occasionally)

Signs and tests:

An examination of the throat and neck may reveal redness and swelling of the tonsil(s), palate, throat, neck, and skin of the chest.

• Aspiration of the abscess usually shows fluid containing pus.
• Culture of the fluid may show bacteria.