tonsillitis

Question 1

what are the complications of tonsillitis?

Answer 1

1. otitis media
2. quinsy - peritonsillar abscess
3. rare: rheumatic fever, glomerulonephritis

Question 2

when should a tonsillectomy be considered, according to NICE?

Answer 2

only if person meets all of the following criteria:

1. sore throats are due to tonsilitis (i.e. not recurrent URTIs)
2. ≥5 episodes of sore throat per year
3. sx occuring for at least a year
4. episodes of sore throat are disabling and prevent normal functioning

Question 3

what are the other established indications for a tonsillectomy?

Answer 3

1. recurrent febrile convulsions 2˚ to episodes of tonsillitis
2. OSA, stridor or dysphagia 2˚ to enlarged tonsils
3. peritonsillar abscess (quinsy) if unresponsive to standard rx

Question 4

A 41-year-old woman presents with a sore throat. Examination of the throat reveals the following.

What is the most likely diagnosis?

Answer 4

acute tonsillitis