A peritonsillar abscess is a localized collection of pus that develops near one of the tonsils in the throat. This condition, also known as quinsy, is quite painful and can make opening the mouth, swallowing, and even speaking difficult. It forms in the space between the tonsil and the surrounding throat muscles.
Peritonsillar Abscess: Not Contagious
A peritonsillar abscess is not contagious. It is an internal infection, meaning the pus-filled pocket cannot be directly transmitted through casual contact. Unlike a cold or the flu, you cannot catch it from someone who has one.
The underlying bacterial infection that can lead to a peritonsillar abscess, such as strep throat, is contagious. These bacteria can spread through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing. However, the abscess is a complication of that initial infection and represents a contained collection of pus within the throat tissue, not a transmissible disease.
How a Peritonsillar Abscess Develops
A peritonsillar abscess often arises as a complication of bacterial tonsillitis. The bacteria responsible are frequently the same ones that cause strep throat, with Streptococcus pyogenes being a common culprit. The infection begins in the tonsil and then spreads beyond its capsule into the loose connective tissue behind it.
When the infection extends into this peritonsillar space, pus accumulates, forming the abscess. While typically a complication of tonsillitis, a peritonsillar abscess can occasionally develop without a prior history of tonsil infection. Factors like gum disease or smoking can also increase the likelihood of developing this condition.
Recognizing and Treating a Peritonsillar Abscess
Recognizing a peritonsillar abscess involves a rapidly worsening sore throat, usually more severe on one side. Symptoms include difficulty and pain when swallowing, fever, and a muffled “hot potato” voice. Patients may also experience chills, headache, earache on the affected side, and an inability to fully open their mouth. Swelling of the face and neck, along with enlarged and tender lymph nodes, can also occur.
Diagnosis is made through a physical examination of the throat, where a healthcare provider observes swelling and redness near one tonsil and potentially a displaced uvula (the fleshy hanging ball in the back of the throat). A doctor may gently press the area to confirm pus. Imaging tests, such as ultrasound or CT scans, can also confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions.
Treatment for a peritonsillar abscess involves two approaches: drainage of the pus and antibiotic therapy. Drainage can be performed by needle aspiration (withdrawing pus with a needle) or by incision and drainage (making a small cut). Both methods aim to relieve pressure and remove the infection.
Antibiotics are prescribed to fight the bacterial infection, often targeting bacteria like Streptococcus pyogenes and oral anaerobes. It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve. Prompt medical attention is necessary, as untreated peritonsillar abscesses can lead to serious complications, including airway blockage.