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Peritonsillar abscess - Do we need anaerobic cover?

A J Varghese1, V N Chaturvedi

  • 1ENT Department, Christian Medical College, Ludhiana, Punjab, 141 008 India.

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

Insights

Injectable penicillin remains the primary treatment for Peritonsillar abscess (PTA). Even with resistant bacteria, effective management is achievable through drainage, hydrogen peroxide gargles, and injectable penicillin.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Peritonsillar abscess (PTA) treatment often involves antibiotics targeting both aerobic and anaerobic organisms.
  • The emergence of new, expensive antibiotics raises questions about cost-effective treatment options for PTA.
  • Identifying an economical and accessible antibiotic for PTA is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of existing antibiotics for Peritonsillar abscess.
  • To determine if current, affordable antibiotics remain suitable for treating PTA.

Main Methods:

  • This study focused on the clinical context of Peritonsillar abscess treatment.
  • The research assessed the common causative organisms in PTA.
  • The study considered the availability and cost of various antibiotics.

Main Results:

  • Group A Streptococcus (GABHS) and Staphylococcus aureus (coagulase-positive) are the most frequent pathogens in PTA.
  • Injectable penicillin is identified as the preferred antibiotic for PTA.
  • Penicillin-resistant organisms do not preclude effective PTA management.

Conclusions:

  • Injectable penicillin is the drug of choice for Peritonsillar abscess (PTA).
  • Effective PTA management is possible with abscess drainage, hydrogen peroxide gargles, and injectable penicillin, even in cases of penicillin resistance.
Keywords:
Group A Beta Haemolytic Streptococci (GABHS)Injectable PenicillinPeritonsillar abscess (PTA)

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