Unique Extension of Peritonsillar Abscess to the Masticator Space Encountered in the Early Phase of Antiviral Therapy for Hepatitis C

Abstract

Background: To describe a unique case of peritonsillar abscess showing peculiar extension to the masticator space, encountered in the early phase of telaprevir therapy in combination with peginterferonalfa-2b and ribavirin for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Methods: Review of clinical case records, including computed tomography and surgical approaches. Results: A 64-year-old woman was taking medications for HCV, including telaprevir therapy in combination with peginterferonalfa-2b and ribavirin every one week. She was also receiving medical treatment for diabetes mellitus. Her symptoms started 3 days after the commencement of antiviral therapy. She underwent surgery for drainage of the abscess, including endoscopy-assisted intraoral drainage and quinsy tonsillectomy. Conclusions: It is important to bear in mind that a patient suffering from multiple systemic diseases may display unique clinical presentations with head and neck infections. Endoscopy-assisted intraoral drainageof the lateral masticator space was less invasive than other approaches, obviating the need for identifying the facial nerve.