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Peritonsillar abscess

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Definition:

Peritonsillar abscess is a collection of infected material in the area around the tonsils.

See also: Retropharyngeal abscess

Alternative Names:

Quinsy; Abscess - peritonsillar

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Peritonsillar abscess is a complication of tonsillitis . It is most often caused by a type of bacteria called group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus.

Peritonsillar abscess is generally a disease of older children, adolescents, and young adults. It has become relatively uncommon since the use of antibiotics to treat tonsillitis.

• Review Date: 2/12/2007
• Reviewed By: Alden J. Pearl, M.D., Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Otolaryngology, State University of New York Health Science Center at Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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