Symptoms and Signs of Peritonsillar Abscess

Peritonsillar Abscess Symptoms

The first symptom of peritonsillar abscess is usually a sore throat. A period without fever or other symptoms may follow as the abscess develops. It is not unusual for a delay of 2-5 days between the start of symptoms and abscess formation.

• The mouth and throat may show a swollen area of inflammation - typically on one side.
• The uvula (the small finger of tissue that hangs down in the middle of the throat) may be pushed away from the swollen side of the mouth.
• Lymph glands in the neck may be enlarged and tender.
• Other signs and symptoms may be observed:
  • Severe sore throat that becomes isolated to one side
  • Painful swallowing
  • Fever and chills
  • Muscle spasm in the muscles of the jaw (trismus) and neck (torticollis)
  • Ear pain on the same side as the abscess
  • A muffled voice, often described as a "hot potato" voice (sounds as if you have a mouthful of hot potato when you talk)
  • Difficulty swallowing saliva

Peritonsillar Abscess Causes

A peritonsillar abscess is most often a complication of tonsillitis. The bacteria involved are similar to those that cause strep throat.

Streptococcal bacteria most commonly cause an infection in the soft tissue around the tonsils (usually just on one side). The tissue is then invaded by anaerobes (bacteria that can live without oxygen), which enter through nearby glands.

• Dental infection (such as periodontitis and gingivitis—gum disorders) may be a risk factor. Other risk factors include these:
  • Chronic tonsillitis
  • Infectious mononucleosis
  • Smoking
  • Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
  • Stones or calcium deposits in the tonsils (tonsilloliths)