[Peritonsillar abscess associated with infectious mononucleosis: retrospective study of three cases]

Akio Hatanaka1, Atsunobu Tsunoda, Hiromi Kanazawa

  • 1Department of Otolaryngology, Asahi General Hospital, Asahi.

Insights

Infectious mononucleosis can lead to peritonsillar abscesses, a complication not previously recognized. Early diagnosis of Epstein-Barr virus is crucial for managing these cases effectively.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Virology

Background:

  • Peritonsillar abscess is a known complication of tonsillitis.
  • Infectious mononucleosis is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).

Observation:

  • Three cases of infectious mononucleosis presented with initial misdiagnoses of tonsillitis or peritonsillitis.
  • Elevated aminotransferases prompted suspicion of infectious mononucleosis.
  • Epstein-Barr virus antibody titers confirmed the diagnosis.

Findings:

  • All three patients developed peritonsillar abscesses requiring surgical drainage.
  • The study indicates a potentially higher incidence of peritonsillar abscess in infectious mononucleosis patients than previously reported.

Implications:

  • This suggests that infectious mononucleosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of peritonsillar abscess.
  • Increased awareness may lead to earlier diagnosis and appropriate management of EBV-associated peritonsillar abscesses.

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