Disease or Syndrome
peritonsillar abscess
Subclass of:
Tonsillitis; Abscess
Definitions related to peritonsillar abscess:
  • An abscess that develops in the space surrounding one or both palatine tonsils.
    NCI
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
  • An accumulation of purulent material in the area between the PALATINE TONSIL and its capsule.
    NLM Medical Subject Headings
    U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2025
  • Peritonsillar abscess (PTA) was first described as early as the 14th century; however, it is only since the advent of antibiotics in the 20th century that the condition has been described more extensively. A PTA is a localized accumulation of pus in the peritonsillar tissues that forms as a result of suppurative tonsillitis.
    Medscape
    WebMD, 2025
  • Quinsy, also called Peritonsillar Abscess, pus-filled swelling in the throat that develops infrequently as a complication of acute tonsillitis. It extends through the tonsillar capsule into the loose connective tissue of the neck and displaces the involved tonsil toward the midline of the throat.
    Encyclopedia Britannica
    Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc., 2025
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