Peritonsillitis in primary care: patient characteristics and care pathways - a population-based registry study

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Peritonsillitis is a common deep neck infection, often a complication of pharyngotonsillitis.
• Limited population-based data exists on peritonsillitis patient characteristics and care pathways.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe patient demographics, clinical presentation, and care pathways for peritonsillitis.
• To estimate incidence rates and temporal trends of peritonsillitis in a defined population.

Main Methods:

• Population-based registry study in Region Kronoberg, Sweden (2012-2016).
• Included all peritonsillitis and pharyngotonsillitis episodes diagnosed in primary health care (PHC) and hospitals.
• Analyzed patient characteristics, recent pharyngotonsillitis history, and referral pathways.

Main Results:

• 607 peritonsillitis episodes identified in 555 patients; incidence peaked in adolescents and young adults.
• Only 23% of episodes had preceding pharyngotonsillitis within 30 days.
• 85% of episodes involved initial PHC management, with most referred to ENT specialist care.

Conclusions:

• Peritonsillitis primarily affects adolescents and young adults, often without recent sore throat.
• PHC is central to initial assessment and referral, with most patients managed in specialist care.
• Findings inform early recognition and management strategies in PHC.