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Updated: Jul 3, 2026
08:34
Identification of Virulence Markers of Mycobacterium abscessus for Intracellular Replication in Phagocytes
Published on: September 27, 2018
Variations in the microbiology of peritonsillar abscess
H Gavriel1, T Lazarovitch, A Pomortsev
1Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Assaf Harofeh Medical Center, Zerifin, Israel. haim.ga@012.net.il
Summary
Bacterial growth rates in peritonsillar abscess (PTA) studies showed significant changes over seven years, with an increase in anaerobic bacteria. This finding helps explain varied results and suggests evolving bacterial behavior in PTA cases.
Area of Science:
- Otorhinolaryngology
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Microbiologic studies are standard for peritonsillar abscess (PTA) diagnosis.
- PTA bacterial growth rates exhibit wide variability, attributed to differing laboratory methods and incubation periods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To retrospectively analyze trends in PTA bacterial growth rates over a seven-year period (1996-2002).
- To investigate potential changes in the microbial landscape of peritonsillar abscesses.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 310 PTA hospitalizations with available microbiologic data.
- Evaluation of Gram stain, aerobic/anaerobic cultures, and antibiotic sensitivities.
- Collection of patient demographics and antibiotic residue data.
Main Results:
- Streptococcus pyogenes and Prevotella were the most frequent pathogens.
- A statistically significant increase in anaerobic bacterial growth rate was observed, rising from 6.8% in 1996 to 37% in 1999.
- Polymicrobial growth rates also showed a non-significant increasing trend.
Conclusions:
- Observed shifts in bacterial growth rates may explain variability in reported PTA microbiologic findings.
- The data suggest a potential change in the biologic behavior of bacteria implicated in peritonsillar abscess.
- Further research is warranted to understand these evolving trends.
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