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Peritonsillar abscess-a clinico-bacteriological study

A Verghese1, V N Chaturvedi, A K Singh

  • 1Department of Otolaryngology-HNS, M.G.I.M.S. Sevagram, 442102 Wardha, Maharashtra.

Indian Journal of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery : Official Publication of the Association of Otolaryngologists of India
|November 3, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Peritonsillar abscess (PTA) affects adults, with pain, fever, and swelling as key symptoms. Bacterial infections, particularly Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus, are common causes, necessitating prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Peritonsillar abscess (PTA) is a common complication of tonsillitis.
  • Understanding the demographic, clinical, and microbiological features of PTA is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the clinical presentation and microbiological profile of peritonsillar abscess (PTA) cases.
  • To identify common bacterial pathogens involved in PTA.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 32 peritonsillar abscess (PTA) cases.
  • Clinical data collection including symptoms, signs, and demographics.
  • Bacterial culture and identification of aerobic and anaerobic organisms.

Main Results:

  • PTA constituted 0.08% of ENT outdoor cases and 0.80% of indoor admissions.
  • The mean age was 34.21 years, with a male predominance (1.69:1).
  • Common symptoms included pain, fever, and peritonsillar swelling (90.62%). Ipsilateral jugulodigastric lymphadenopathy was present in all cases.
  • Bacterial culture was positive in 78.12% of cases. Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus (GABHS) was the most common aerobic isolate (27.77%). Peptostreptococcus was the most frequent anaerobic isolate (18.18%).

Conclusions:

  • Peritonsillar abscess (PTA) presents with characteristic symptoms and signs.
  • Bacterial infections, including GABHS and anaerobic organisms like Peptostreptococcus, play a significant role in PTA etiology.
  • Early diagnosis and targeted antibiotic therapy based on microbiological findings are essential for managing PTA.
Keywords:
BacteriologyPeritonsillar abscess

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