Menu Healthy Lifestyle Diseases & Conditions First Aid Symptoms Tests & Procedures Videos Definitions FAQs QuinsyUpdated: 2017-06-13OverviewA 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. SymptomsSymptoms include fever and chills, difficulty swallowing, and severe throat pain. TreatmentsAntibiotics can treat an early infection. Sometimes the abscess is drained surgically or with a needle. The tonsils may be removed. © 1998-2022 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research(MFMER). All rights reserved. Terms of Use