What causes a peritonsillar abscess?
Peritonsillar abscesses are caused by an infection. Most are a complication of tonsillitis (an infection of the tonsils). But they can also be caused by mononucleosis (also called mono), or tooth and gum infections. People who smoke are more likely to get a peritonsillar abscess.
Source
Peritonsillar Abscess by Nicholas J. Galioto, MD (American Family Physician January 15, 2008, http://www.aafp.org/afp/20080115/199.html)
Written by familydoctor.org editorial staff
Reviewed/Updated: 02/11
Created: 09/09