An acute infection that produces a collection of pus between the tonsils and the muscle at the back of the mouth. Peritonsillar abscess occurs most commonly in young adults and is usually caused by a Streptococcus infection, but may be due to other types of bacteria. Symptoms include severe pain when swallowing, fever, and lockjaw (painful spasm of the jaw muscle that makes it difficult or impossible to open the mouth). The soft palate becomes reddened and swollen, and the uvula (the appendage of the soft palate) is enlarged and repositioned to one side.
The term applied to a collection of pus or an abscess which occurs complicating an attack of tonsillitis. The collection of pus forms between the tonsil and the superior constrictor muscle of the pharynx. This condition is also known as quinsy; treatment comprises drainage of the abscess and the administration of appropriate antibiotics.
A peritonsillar abscess, often referred to as quinsy, is a pus-filled pocket that develops in the soft tissue surrounding the tonsils, typically as a result of tonsillitis. It leads to pain, trouble swallowing, and stiffness in the jaw. There’s usually an uneven appearance to the tonsils. Treatment commonly includes antibiotics and pain-relief medications. In certain situations, a minor surgical procedure may be carried out to drain the abscess.