What is the primary treatment for a peritonsillar abscess?

The primary treatment for a peritonsillar abscess is a combination of antibiotics and either aspiration or incision and drainage. This approach addresses both the immediate complications associated with the abscess, such as pain and difficulty swallowing, and the underlying infection.

Antibiotics help to eliminate the bacterial infection that contributes to the formation of the abscess, thereby reducing the risk of systemic complications such as sepsis. However, antibiotics alone may not sufficiently relieve the abscess, which is typically filled with pus and may require drainage to fully resolve.

Aspiration can provide immediate symptomatic relief by releasing the pressure from the abscess, while incision and drainage is often necessary for larger abscesses or those that do not respond to aspiration. This surgical intervention allows for complete evacuation of the purulent material, facilitating faster recovery and alleviation of symptoms.

Other treatment options, such as the use of aspirin and cold compress, may provide minimal symptomatic relief but do not address the underlying infection or abscess. Similarly, corticosteroids can reduce inflammation but are not a standard treatment for a peritonsillar abscess, as they can potentially mask symptoms and worsen the infection. Allowing the abscess to resolve on its own is also not advisable, as it could lead to