The Role of Ultrasound in Pediatric Peritonsillar Infection: A Descriptive Analysis

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Emergency Medicine
• Diagnostic Imaging
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Peritonsillar abscesses (PTAs) are common pediatric infections.
• Accurate and timely diagnosis is crucial for effective management.
• Ultrasound offers a non-invasive imaging option for suspected PTAs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the diagnostic role of ultrasound in pediatric peritonsillar abscesses (PTAs).
• To compare clinical outcomes between PTA-positive and PTA-negative pediatric patients.
• To assess the correlation between ultrasound findings and treatment decisions.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of 54 children (ages 4-17) with suspected PTAs.
• Analysis of ultrasound findings to classify patients into PTA-positive and PTA-negative groups.
• Comparison of clinical characteristics, treatment, and outcomes between the two groups.

Main Results:

• Ultrasound identified PTAs in 14.8% of pediatric patients.
• Trismus was significantly associated with PTA (P = .03).
• PTA-positive patients had increased steroid use, hospital admission, and longer stays (P < .05).
• No significant differences were observed in CT use, surgical intervention, or return visits.
• Larger abscesses showed a trend towards surgical treatment (P = .087).

Conclusions:

• Ultrasound is an efficient diagnostic tool for suspected pediatric peritonsillar infections.
• It aids in differentiating PTA-positive from PTA-negative cases.
• Clinical outcomes were comparable between groups, highlighting ultrasound's utility in guiding management.