Tonsilitis Flashcards
1
Q
Define:
A
• Inflammation due to infection of the tonsils.
2
Q
Aetiology:
A
- Usually VIRAL (e.g. common cold or influenza)
* Can be bacterial (caused by group A streptococci)
3
Q
Risk factors:
A
o Immune deficiency
o Family history of tonsillitis or atopy
4
Q
Epidemiology:
A
- VERY COMMON
* Usually in children and young adults
5
Q
Symptoms:
A
- Pain in the throat
- Painful swallowing
- Pain may be referred to ears
- Abdominal pain (in small children)
- Headache
- Loss of voice or changes in voice
6
Q
Signs:
A
Red throat
• Swollen tonsils, which may have white flecks of pus
• High temperature (sometimes)
• Swollen lymph nodes
Examination:
o Intense erythema of tonsils and pharynx
o Yellow exudate
o Tender, enlarged anterior cervical glands
7
Q
Signs of strep tonsillitis:
A
o Acute onset
o Headache
o Abdominal pain
o Dysphagia
8
Q
Investigations:
A
- Throat swabs and rapid antigen tests can be performed (but are NOT recommended)
- Swabs may not be able to distinguish between infection and colonisation
