Quinsy, also known as peritonsillar abscess, is caused by an infection. Several bacteria can cause quinsy, but the most common types are haemophilus influenzae and streptococcus bacteria, particularly streptococcus pyogenes.
It is not clear why the infection that leads to quinsy occurs, but the most commonly accepted theory is that a collection of pus, called an abscess, forms after a bout of severe, untreated tonsillitis, or tonsillitis that is not fully treated.
Weber glands
Another theory about the causes of quinsy involves the Weber glands. The Weber glands produce secretions and are located just above the tonsils. They clear debris, such as dead tissue, from the tonsils and surrounding area.
If the Weber glands malfunction and cannot clear the build-up of debris from the area around the tonsils, the tubes that drain the glands may become swollen. This can cause an infection to develop, which gets worse and causes an abscess to form.
Risk factors
Factors that may increase your risk of developing quinsy after having a sore throat include:
- having diabetes
- having an immune system (the body’s natural defence system) that is less able to fight infections, for example if you have HIV
Immune system
The immune system is the body's defence system, which helps protect it from disease, bacteria and viruses.
Inflammation
Inflammation is the body's response to infection, irritation or injury, which causes redness, swelling, pain and sometimes a feeling of heat in the affected area.
Tonsils
Two small glands found at the back of your throat, behind the tongue.
