Adult Guidance
Pharyngitis

Pharyngitis

Definition

Inflammation of the pharynx characterized by sore throat and painful swallowing

Diagnosis

Sore throat and painful swallowing

  • Viral: Symptoms are often the same as those of a viral upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) with cough, headache and myalgia
  • Bacterial: More severe presentation, fever (>38.0°C), tender cervical lymph nodes and pharyngeal exudates (see "Centor Clinical Scoring System" below)

Lower likelihood to be caused by Group A Streptococcus (GAS) (Centor score 0-2*):

  • Tests usually not needed

Higher likelihood to be caused by GAS (Centor score 3-4*):

  • Rapid antigen test or throat culture could be considered, especially in countries where rheumatic fever (RF) and rheumatic heart disease are frequent
  • Tests should only be performed if antibiotic treatment is considered following a positive test result

*See "Centor Clinical Scoring System" below

Blood tests usually not needed

Usually not needed unless a complication is suspected

Microbiology

Additional Information

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