Changing trends in bacteriology of peritonsillar abscess

To evaluate the type of aerobic bacteria commonly isolated from peritonsillar abscesses.

A retrospective study involving 60 patients presenting with peritonsillar abscess treated between 2003 and 2006.

The patients were treated in a tertiary care, teaching hospital. The records of the patients were reviewed and analysed.

Gram-positive organisms were commonly isolated from the abscesses. However, an increasing trend towards Gram-negative bacterial isolates was noted. The antibiogram showed changing patterns of sensitivity, with a resistance to penicillin.

There is an increasing incidence of Gram-negative aerobic bacteria causing peritonsillar abscess. Appropriate antibiotics for Gram-negative bacteria should be included in the regimen if such bacteria are isolated in culture and sensitivity studies.

Empirical antibiotics with Gram-negative cover will be appropriate as adjunctive therapy.