Module 9 Part 2 Pharyngitis Children

Question 1

What percentage of uncomplicated pharyngitis in children is typically caused by viral infections?

Answer 1

80-90% of uncomplicated pharyngitis in children is typically caused by viral infections.

Question 2

What are the clinical features indicative of a viral pharyngitis in children?

Answer 2

Clinical features include conjunctivitis, cough, hoarseness, coryza, anterior stomatitis, and discrete ulcerative lesions.

Question 3

What is the first-line antibiotic for treating bacterial pharyngitis caused by Group A Strep (GAS) in children, and what are the dosing options?

Answer 3

Penicillin V: For children ≤ 27 kg, use 40 mg/kg/day divided BID-TID (maximum: 750 mg/day). For children > 27 kg, use the adult dose.

Question 4

What are the second-line antibiotics for treating bacterial pharyngitis caused by GAS in children?

Answer 4

Second-line antibiotics include Cephalexin, Cefprozil, Cefuroxime, Clarithromycin, and Azithromycin.

Question 5

Which bacterial pathogen can cause pharyngitis and may lead to Lemierre’s syndrome, and what age group is particularly affected?

Answer 5

Fusobacterium necrophorum can cause pharyngitis and may lead to Lemierre’s syndrome, primarily affecting adolescents and young adults.

Question 6

How can dexamethasone benefit children with sore throats?

Answer 6

Dexamethasone may provide pain relief for children with sore throats, with earlier onset of relief and quicker time to pain resolution.