Why does purulent tonsillitis not present with elevated blood counts?
Disease description:
I have suppurative tonsillitis, but my blood test results show no elevated white blood cell count. Why is the white blood cell count not elevated in suppurative tonsillitis?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Xu Gang
In purulent tonsillitis, the peripheral white blood cell count may not be elevated, possibly due to either bacterial or viral infection. Patients typically present with fever and tonsillar inflammation, but without leukocytosis. Antibiotic therapy is indicated—for example, penicillin. In patients allergic to penicillin, alternatives such as clindamycin or erythromycin may be used.
