What are the potential complications of a peritonsillar abscess that I should be aware of during management?

During the management of a peritonsillar abscess, it is important for an Admin in General Practice to be aware of several potential complications NICE CKS. A significant concern is the risk of airway obstruction, which can be life-threatening [1, Herzon & Nicklaus 1996]. The infection may also spread beyond the tonsillar capsule into adjacent deep neck spaces NICE CKS. This spread can lead to more severe conditions such as a parapharyngeal abscess or even mediastinitis, which is an infection of the chest cavity NICE CKS. Another serious, though less common, complication is internal jugular vein thrombosis, also known as Lemierre's syndrome, which can result from the spread of infection NICE CKS. There is also a risk of aspiration of pus, particularly if the abscess ruptures spontaneously NICE CKS. Furthermore, even after successful initial management, there is a possibility of recurrence of the peritonsillar abscess [1, Herzon & Nicklaus 1996].