Ulceronecrotic Tonsillitis in a Young Adult: A Rare Presentation
Ayeiza Maria FELIPE LEMES, Paolo Augusto ROMERO MERINO, Carlos Eduardo GOMES RODRIGUES CORREIA, Carmen DE SANTIAGO GONZÁLEZ and Rosa Maria GONZÁLEZ LÓPEZ
Ulceronecrotic tonsillitis is an uncommon and potentially severe form of acute tonsillar infection. Its presentation may raise concern for deep neck infections or hematologic disorders, making early recognition and adequate follow-up essential. This case highlights the role of primary care in initial assessment, risk stratification, and coordination with specialized services to prevent complications.A young adult presented to primary care with a three-day history of odynophagia unresponsive to oral amoxicillin initiated at home. She reported dysphagia but no dyspnea, fever, or systemic symptoms. Her medical history was unremarkable except for a previous episode of tonsillitis. Examination revealed hypertrophic tonsils with ulceronecrotic appearance, more pronounced on the left side, without uvular deviation or signs of peritonsillar abscess. Cervical lymphadenopathy was present but non-fluctuant.The patient was clinically stable and afebrile.Given the atypical findings, she was referred to otorhinolaryngology for urgent evaluation.During hospital observation, she remained hemodynamically stable and tolerated oral intake. Repeat examination showed bilateral pharyngeal improvement and reduction of ulceronecrotic plaques. Analytical tests demonstrated leukocytosis and decreasing C-reactive protein (from 175 mg/L to 53 mg/L). No signs of airway compromise or deep neck infection emerged. She was discharged with amoxicillin-clavulanic acid every eight hours for seven days, a tapering course of oral prednisone, and paracetamol as needed. She was advised to return to emergency care if fever, worsening dysphagia, respiratory difficulty, or cervical swelling appeared. Follow-up with ENT was arranged for six to eight weeks.Ulceronecrotic tonsillitis is rarely encountered in routine primary care.Its presentation mimics more serious conditions such as Lemierre’s syndrome,agranulocytosis, or necrotizing infections, underscoring the need for accurate early evaluation.This case reinforces the importance of identifying red-flag symptoms and recognizing atypical patterns of tonsillitis.Clear communication and expedited referral pathways allow efficient exclusion of severe causes and avoid unnecessary antibiotic escalation.From a primary care perspective,this case illustrates the value of comprehensive examination, safety-netting, and shared management with ENT specialists.Early referral prevented diagnostic uncertainty and ensured appropriate monitoring until clinical resolution.Ulceronecrotic tonsillitis, though rare, should be considered in patients with persistent odynophagia and atypical tonsillar findings.Timely evaluation and coordinated care enable safe outpatient management and prevent complications.
