Concurrent Peritonsillar Abscess and Uvular Hydrops in a Pediatric Patient

Although peritonsillar abscesses (PTAs) are a common presentation in pediatric patients, there are very few reports on a pediatric patient with both a PTA and uvular hydrops. Our patient presented to the emergency room after being unsuccessfully treated for pharyngitis, with odynophagia, dyspnea, muffled voice, drooling, and trismus. On physical examination, we observed a PTA as well as an edematous and erythematous uvula. Following the standard of care, the patient underwent a needle aspiration in the emergency department and subsequently was admitted overnight for observation. The patient had great symptom relief after undergoing drainage of his PTA and was discharged the next morning with symptom resolution of his dyspnea and odynophagia. We recommend drainage and close monitoring for airway compromise as an appropriate treatment course for PTAs and concurrent uvular hydrops.