Peritonsillar Abscess (Noun)
Meaning
A painful pus filled inflammation of the tonsils and surrounding tissues; usually a complication of tonsillitis.
Classification
Nouns denoting natural processes.
Examples
- A peritonsillar abscess can be diagnosed with a physical examination, and laboratory tests are sometimes ordered to rule out other complications of tonsillitis.
- Untreated peritonsillar abscesses can rupture, spreading bacteria and leading to severe and life-threatening infections in rare cases.
- People who develop peritonsillar abscess often require drainage and possible removal of their tonsils as treatment for recurring cases of tonsillitis.
- Typically antibiotics and rest are used in treatment to address symptoms associated with peritonsillar abscess, helping to combat infection and prevent further complications.
- Quinsy, or a peritonsillar abscess, can turn severe in elderly people due to suppressed immune responses to tonsillitis, demanding more rigorous treatments to overcome potential fatal infections.