Peritonsillar abscess. Why aggressive management is appropriate.

Peritonsillar abscess is the most common deep neck infection in adults. Infections develop from purulent material collecting in the fascial spaces lateral to the capsule of the palatine tonsil. Infections are usually polymicrobial, and a significant number of anaerobes are isolated. The cornerstone of therapy is drainage of the abscess. With cooperative patients, careful permucosal needle aspiration is an accepted method of primary therapy. Large or recurrent abscesses require otolaryngologic consultation for adequate incision and drainage. Tonsillectomy may be necessary to prevent re-formation of abscess in patients with a history of recurrent tonsillitis.