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Peritonsillar abscess caused by Nocardia asteroides.

J C Adair1, I J Amber, J M Johnston

  • 1Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City 84132.

Journal of Clinical Microbiology
|November 1, 1987
PubMed
Summary

A rare Nocardia asteroides infection caused a peritonsillar abscess in a young man with recurrent pharyngitis. Prompt microbiological investigation is crucial for pharyngeal abscesses unresponsive to standard treatments.

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Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Recurrent pharyngitis can predispose individuals to complications.
  • Peritonsillar abscesses are typically treated with antibiotics and drainage.
  • Bacterial infections of the throat are common, but specific pathogens vary.

Observation:

  • A 22-year-old male presented with a peritonsillar abscess.
  • The patient had a history of recurrent pharyngitis.
  • Aspiration of the abscess yielded a pure culture of Nocardia asteroides.

Findings:

  • Nocardia asteroides, an unusual pathogen, was identified as the causative agent.
  • Iatrogenic introduction of the bacteria during a prior tonsillar incision is suspected.
  • The abscess presented as a complication of recurrent pharyngitis.

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Implications:

  • Nocardia species should be considered in the differential diagnosis of pharyngeal abscesses.
  • Appropriate microbiological handling of specimens is essential for unusual pathogens.
  • Pharyngeal abscesses that do not respond to conventional therapy warrant further investigation.