Microbiology of Peritonsillar Abscess: A Prospective Study

Introduction: Peritonsillar abscess remains a common deep infection of the head and neck. We performed culture and sensitivity studies on pus drained from a peritonsillar abscess. The objectives were to identify the bacterial flora and to compare the relative efficacies of three-point needle aspiration and incision and drainage in the initial management of peritonsillar abscess. Materials and Methods: A total of 30 cases of peritonsillar abscess were randomly divided into two groups. One group underwent three-point needle aspiration and the other group incision and drainage. The pus obtained was sent to the laboratory for direct smear examination by Gram-stain and for culture and sensitivity studies. Results: Bacteriologic studies showed positive culture in 73.3% of cases. The bacteria most commonly isolated was betahemolytic Streptococcus followed by Staphylococcus. Following intervention, immediate relief of pain in patients who underwent needle aspiration was 75%, and the same was 77.8% in patients who underwent incision and drainage. Conclusion: The bacteria most commonly identified were beta-hemolytic Streptococcus. Three points needle aspiration of pus was found to be equally efficacious in relief of pain as incision and drainage in the initial management of peritonsillar abscess.