Diagnosis and treatment of peritonsillar abscess

Abstract Peritonsillar abscess (PTA) is a painful, deep infection. With appropriate treatment, complete resolution is usually achieved. Symptoms of PTA are, in most cases very typical, but diagnosis and especially locating the abscess cavity may be more challenging. Although any age group can be affected, PTA is most common in adolescents and young adults. Pus from the abscess cavity has to be removed with either needle aspiration, incision and drainage, or in conjunction with tonsillectomy. Antibiotics and pain killers are also required. Most cases can be treated as an outpatient. If inadequately treated abscess can spread to neck and mediastinum, and infection may require emergent surgical treatment. When adequate equipment and knowledge available, most PTAs can be managed in primary health care as well.