Otolaryngology: Open Access
Open Access

Abstract

Background: Tonsillitis and quinsy remains a common acute in-patient admission into an Otolaryngology unit. Nevertheless, there is lack of specific guidelines for secondary care. Resource utilization within the secondary care remains puzzling. Aim: The primary aim was to assess our centre 2014 practice regarding throat swabs/pus sample (TSPS) and Monospot test (MT) for tonsillitis and quinsy. The secondary aim was to analyze the effect of the investigations on the management. Methodology: Retrospective data collection from the year 2014 was performed from a single ENT unit. List for patients admitted and diagnosed with �Tonsillitis�, �Quinsy�, �Peritonsilar Abscess� or �Glandular Fever� was obtained from the Hospital Information Office. The Electronic Care Record system was used to obtain the data needed. Fisher�s Exact were performed to analyze the data. Results: 69 patients accounting for 72 episodes of admission occur in the year 2014. Mean age was 27.87 years old with Male: Female ratio of 38:31. Overall, 35.2% did not have any investigation. 64.8% had at least more than one investigation accounting for 25% of TSPS and 48.6% MT. The amount of investigations perform did not change the management (Fisher�s exact F=0.5973). The estimated overall cost to detect one positive monospot test per 100 patients was 911.76gBP and 450gBP to grow a positive throat swab/pus sample per 100 patients. Conclusion: MT should only be performed in those within a high risk group patient. TSPS are not routinely sent as it will not alter the management in 48 hours.

Biography

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