quinsies

A quinsy is a rare and potentially life-threatening complication of tonsillitis, typically occurring when a tonsillar abscess forms alongside an existing tonsillitis infection.

The American Academy of Otolaryngology defines a quinsy as a "peritonsillar abscess" which involves an accumulation of pus in the space between the tonsils and other structures in the throat.

Symptoms may include difficulty swallowing, fever, severe throat pain, and a swollen lymph node on one side of the throat, amongst others.

Experts attribute the development of a quinsy to inadequate drainage of the tonsillary crypts, deep within the tonsil's surface. Social factors, demographics, and genetics are among several influences on the risk of developing quinsy.

When left untreated, patients often suffer additional complications stemming from the spread of the infection. If properly identified before becoming critical, cases may be sufficiently treated through antibiotics with inhalation therapy indicated in tandem or independently.

Cases where patients exhibit signs of a quinsy call for a prompt abdomen-cervical examination by a qualified healthcare professional. MRI, CT, or similar tests may help verify the presence of a peritonsillar abscess.

After completion of medication and resting the vocal cords with reduced speaking and food intake, full recovery can be expected, though general symptoms decrease as the swelling is significantly reduced.