Overview
Peritonsillar abscesses are a complication of acute tonsillitis. It is characterised by the presence of pus surrounding the tonsils and is a medical emergency as it can lead to airway compromise.
Epidemiology
- More common in children
- Most common in winter/early spring where bacterial sore throat is more common
Presentation
Patients classically have:
- Fever
- Severe sore throat – usually on one side
- Deviation of the uvula away from the affected side
- Trismus (lockjaw)
- “Hot potato voice” due to pharyngeal oedema and trismus
Investigations
All patients
- Any patient with a suspected peritonsillar abscess should immediately be referred to ENT for a same-day assessment.
Management
All patients
- Immediate referral to ENT if not already done
- 1st-line: surgical drainage + IV antibiotics
- Consider tonsillectomy
Complications
- Airway compromise
