Peritonsillar abscess, also called PTA or Quinsy, is a recognised complication of tonsillitis and consists of a collection of pus beside the tonsil (peritonsillar space).

It causes great pain, fever, malaise and is associated with tender, swollen lymph nodes. Whilst these signs may be present in tonsillitis itself, a PTA should be specifically considered if there is limited ability to open the mouth (trismus).

Treatment is, as for all abscesses, through surgical incising and drainage of the pus, thereby relieving the pain of the stretched tissues. Antibiotics are also given to treat the infection.

Notable Quinsy sufferers

• George Washington is believed to have died of complications arising from Quinsy.
• Michel de Montaigne's quinsy brought about the paralysis of his tongue.
• Georges Bizet

References