International Journal of Homoeopathic Sciences

Peritonsillar abscess remains the most common deep infection of the head and neck. It is also known as quinsy. PTA is a collection of pus located between the tonsillar capsule and the pharyngeal constrictor muscle. It is considered a complication of acute tonsillitis and is the most prevalent deep neck infection. A peritonsillar abscess is a polymicrobial infection, but Group A streptococcus is the predominate organism. Group A Streptococcus (GAS) is the only established pathogen in PTA. However, GAS is only recovered from approximately 20% of PTA patients. The pathogens in the remaining 80% are unknown. Teenagers and young adults are most commonly affected and males may predominate over females. The condition occurs primarily in young adults, most often during November to December and April to May, coinciding with the highest incidence of streptococcal pharyngitis and exudative tonsillitis. Symptoms generally include fever, malaise, sore throat, dysphagia, and otalgia. Physical findings may include trismus and a muffled voice (also called “hot potato voice”), sialorrhea (excessive saliva), glutter voice (a tremulous or wavering quality in voice). Drainage of the abscess, antibiotics, and supportive therapy for maintaining hydration and pain control are the foundation of treatment. Clinical presentation may vary from acute tonsillitis with a minimal unilateral pharyngeal bulge to dehydration and sepsis. The complications may include blockage of the airway or aspiration pneumonitis. The conventional treatment is done for removing the pus by incision & drainage along with medications for swelling & pain management. The homeopathic line of treatment depends on the actual state of the condition. Homeopathic medicines can be used in mild to moderate cases of peritonsillar abscess successfully as see through this evidenced based case.