Spontaneous tonsillar haemorrhage in acute tonsillitis.

The presentation and management of four cases of spontaneous haemorrhage from the tonsil in association with acute tonsillitis are reported and discussed. Interestingly, younger patients presented with haematemesis. This is a newly recognised, rare, but potentially dangerous complication of acute tonsillitis. Its possible aetiology, pathophysiology and treatment options are discussed.