pharyngite

Pharyngitis, or pharyngite in French, is inflammation of the pharynx that commonly presents as a sore throat. It is usually acute and self-limited, lasting several days to a week.

Most cases are viral. Bacterial pharyngitis is less common but important, especially infection with group A Streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes). Noninfectious causes include allergies, irritants, and reflux; chronic pharyngitis results from ongoing irritation.

Symptoms include sore throat with painful swallowing, red or swollen pharynx, fever, headache, and tender neck glands. Tonsillar exudates may be present. Cough and nasal symptoms suggest a viral origin; severe unilateral pain or drooling warrants urgent assessment.

Diagnosis relies on history and examination. Centor criteria estimate strep risk; confirm with rapid antigen detection test or throat culture when indicated.

Treatment is mostly supportive for viral pharyngitis: analgesics, hydration, rest, and gargling salt water. Antibiotics are indicated for confirmed or highly suspected streptococcal pharyngitis. First-line antibiotics are penicillin V or amoxicillin for about 10 days; alternatives exist for penicillin allergy.

Most patients recover within a week. Potential complications of untreated strep pharyngitis include peritonsillar abscess, rheumatic fever, and post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, though these are uncommon in well-supplied health systems. Prevention focuses on hand hygiene and reducing contact with infected individuals.