Definition

A painful abscess or swelling in the throat, typically forming around the tonsils as a complication of untreated strep throat or tonsillitis. Medically known as a peritonsillar abscess.

Example Usage

The patient's severe throat pain and difficulty swallowing indicated quinsy, requiring immediate antibiotics and possible drainage.

Origin

From Old French 'quinsaie,' derived from Greek 'kynanche' (dog-choking), literally 'kyno' (dog) and 'anchia' (strangling).

Fun Fact

Quinsy was a common and often serious condition in pre-antibiotic times; it was even mentioned in Shakespeare's writings as a recognized medical complaint.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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