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Peritonsillar abscess - Overview

Alternative Names

Quinsy; Abscess - peritonsillar

Definition of Peritonsillar abscess:

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

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.

Lymphatic system

Throat anatomy

Reviewed last on: 10/10/2008
Alan Lipkin, MD, Otolaryngologist, Private Practice, Denver, Colorado. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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