Quinsy

Updated: 2017-06-13

Overview

A peritonsillar abscess occurs when a collection of pus forms and infection spreads beyond the tonsils into the neck and chest. Swollen tissues can block the airway.

Symptoms

Symptoms include fever and chills, difficulty swallowing, and severe throat pain.

Treatments

Antibiotics can treat an early infection. Sometimes the abscess is drained surgically or with a needle. The tonsils may be removed.