American journal of otolaryngology
-
To review the presentation and management of peritonsillar (PTA) and parapharyngeal space (PPSA) abscesses in older adults and compare this with the usual presentation and management in the younger patient. ⋯ PTA and PPSA are uncommon infections in the older adult, with only 14 patients identified at a tertiary care hospital over an 18-year period. Complaints of new onset sore throat and dysphagia of several days duration in patients over 50 years old should alert the evaluating physician to these 2 clinical entities, even in afebrile, nontoxic patients. PTA in this group may be more likely to require inpatient care along with surgical treatment in the operating room.