New trends in the management of peritonsillar abscess

Peritonsillar abscess is the most common complication of acute tonsillitis. Signs and symptoms include fever, unilateral sore throat, odynophagia and trismus. Optimal management consists of antibiotic therapy and drainage of the abscess. Controversy exists about the drainage procedure, which includes needle aspiration, incision and drainage, or acute tonsillectomy. Data indicate that outpatient needle aspiration, antibiotics and pain medication are effective treatment in 85 to 90 percent of patients with uncomplicated peritonsillar abscesses.