In 2.3% of 217 patients with peritonsillar abscess, the clinical picture was atypical, with inflammatory swelling of the pharyngeal wall below and behind the tonsil, oedema of the epiglottis and a diffuse swelling on the side of the neck. The typical signs of peritonsillar abscess, i.e. trismus, a medially displaced tonsil and displacement of the uvula toward the opposite side, were either completely lacking or less pronounced than usual. The abscesses were all located in the peritonsillar space at the lower pole or behind the tonsil. To ensure rapid, uncomplicated recovery in such cases with parapharyngeal involvement, it is essential that abscess tonsillectomy under antibiotic cover with penicillin is not postponed.