Peritonsillar abscess

Alternative names:

abscess - peritonsillar; quinsy

Treatment:

Treatment is aimed at curing the infection and relief of symptoms. Antibiotics may be given if the infection is bacterial. Surgical drainage of the abscess by aspiration or incision will be performed. Analgesics may be used, if needed, for pain. Surgery to remove the tonsils (tonsillectomy) may be considered.

Expectations (prognosis):

Peritonsillar abscess usually responds to treatment, although it may recur.

Complications:

• cellulitis of the jaw, neck, or chest
• pneumonia
• pericarditis (inflammation around the heart)
• pleural effusion (fluid around the lungs)
• endocarditis (rare)
• airway obstruction

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you have had tonsillitis and symptoms of peritonsillar abscess develop.

Call your health care provider if symptoms of complications develop, including worsening of symptoms, persistent fever, cough, difficulty breathing, or pain in the chest.