Peritonsillar abscess
Peritonsillar abscess (pronunciation: per-ee-ton-sill-lar ab-sess) is a medical condition characterized by the accumulation of pus in the peritonsillar space, a region surrounding the tonsils. The term is derived from the Latin words peri meaning around, tonsilla meaning tonsil, and abscessus meaning a going away, referring to the pus that has separated from the surrounding tissue.
Definition
A peritonsillar abscess is a type of abscess that forms in the peritonsillar space, the area surrounding the tonsils. This condition is most commonly caused by a complication of tonsillitis and is often associated with severe sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and fever.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a peritonsillar abscess can vary but often include severe sore throat, difficulty swallowing, fever, drooling, and a change in voice. Other symptoms may include ear pain, bad breath, and neck swelling.
Causes
Peritonsillar abscesses are usually caused by a bacterial infection, often a complication of tonsillitis. The most common bacteria involved are Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as group A streptococcus, and various species of anaerobic bacteria.
Treatment
Treatment for a peritonsillar abscess often involves draining the abscess, usually by needle aspiration or incision and drainage. Antibiotics are also typically prescribed to treat the underlying bacterial infection.
Related Terms
- Tonsillitis: Inflammation of the tonsils, often caused by a viral or bacterial infection.
- Abscess: A collection of pus that has built up within the tissue of the body.
- Streptococcus pyogenes: A species of bacterium that is a common cause of bacterial infections in humans.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Peritonsillar abscess
- Wikipedia's article - Peritonsillar abscess
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