Pharyngitis and Tonsillitis Flashcards
What is the definition of pharyngitis?
Inflammation of the pharynx and soft palate
What is the definition of tonsillitis?
A form of pharyngitis w/ intense inflammation of the tonsils
In what age group is pharyngitis and tonsillitis most common?
5-10 y/os
What are some risk factors for pharyngitis and tonsillitis?
Immune deficiency
FHx of tonsillitis/atopy
What are some common pathogens for pharyngitis?
Adenoviruses
Enteroviruses
Rhinoviruses
What are some common pathogens for tonsillitis?
Group A beta-haemolytic streptococci
EBV
What is the presentation of pharyngitis and tonsillitis?
Throat pain (can be severe and can last >48 hours, worsened on swallowing)
Ear pain
Headache
Voice changes
What may be found on examination of pharyngitis and tonsillitis?
Reddened throat
Swollen tonsils and white flecks of pus
Lymphadenopathy
What are the features of streptococcal tonsillitis?
Acute onset
Headache
Abdo pain
Dysphagia
What is the Centor criteria for the diagnosis of tonsillitis?
Hx of fever
Tonsillar exudates
No cough
Tender anterior cervical lymphadenopathy
What is involved in the management of pharyngitis and tonsillitis?
Adequate fluid intake Ibuprofen/paracetamol for fever/pain Salt water gargling, medicated lozenges Abx Tonsillectomy
What are the indications for Abx in the management of pharyngitis and tonsillitis?
Severe symptoms
Vulnerable groups
What are the Abx that can be used to manage pharyngitis and tonsillitis?
Phenoxymethylpenicillin
Clarithromycin (if penicillin allergy)
What Abx should be avoided if there is a possibility of glandular fever, and why?
Amoxicillin
It can cause a widespread maculopapular rash
For which patients is a tonsillectomy suitable?
Recurrent severe tonsillitis
Peritonsillar abscess
Obstructive sleep apnoea
