What histological changes occur in the affected tissues?
In the initial phase, the infected pharyngeal or tonsillar tissues will show signs of acute inflammation, including: - Neutrophilic infiltration: Neutrophils are the first responders in acute inflammation and are seen in large numbers. - Edema: Swelling due to the accumulation of fluid in the interstitial spaces. - Necrosis: Death of tissue cells, often seen as areas lacking normal cellular structure. - Microabscess formation: Small collections of pus within the tissue.
As the infection spreads to the internal jugular vein: - Thrombosis: Formation of a blood clot in the vein, which can be seen as a mass of fibrin, platelets, and trapped red and white blood cells. - Inflammation of the vein wall: Known as phlebitis, characterized by infiltration of inflammatory cells.
