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Parapharyngeal abscess in an insulin dependant diabetic patient following an elective tonsillectomy
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 19 July 2007
Abstract
Objectives: To demonstrate a potentially life-threatening complication following tonsillectomy in a diabetic patient and discuss the possible pathogenesis.
Methods: Case report and review of the world literature concerning parapharyngeal abscess post-tonsillectomy.
Case report: A 20-year-old female patient underwent an uneventful tonsillectomy following a history of recurrent tonsillitis. She re-presented 14 days post-surgery with a large erythematous tender right mid cervical neck swelling. Clinical and radiological evaluation confirmed a parapharyngeal abscess. She proceeded to have an incision and drainage of the abscess through a horizontal skin crease incision and subsequent intravenous antibiotic therapy. She was discharged home well three days post-surgery.
Conclusion: Diabetes mellitus is a well-recognised systemic disease that may leave an individual more susceptible to infection. We report the first case in a young healthy diabetic patient and highlight a potential serious complication following a routine tonsillectomy.
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- 2007 JLO (1984) Limited
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