Streptococcal pharyngitis is an inflammation (irritation and swelling with presence of extra immune cells) of the pharynx (the part of the throat between the tonsils and the larynx) caused by streptococcus infection.
Alternative Names
Strep throat; Streptococcal pharyngitis
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Group A beta-hemolytic streptococci are the most common bacterial cause of pharyngitis or "strep throat." Streptococcal pharyngitis occurs most commonly from October to April, often in children 5 to 10 years old but also in adults. The infection is spread by direct person-to-person contact with nasal secretions or saliva. The organism may be present in the throat of people without causing a sore throat. This is referred to as colonization. Small children frequently have no symptoms or symptoms too mild for diagnosis. Even though the sore throat usually gets better on its own (self-limited), people who have strep throat should take antibiotics to prevent some of the more serious complications of this infection, particularly acute rheumatic fever. Risk factors include recent strep throat in family or household members. The incidence is 5 in 1,000 people.
Treatment
Antibiotics such as penicillin or erythromycin are usually prescribed for sore throats that have a positive streptococci test or culture. Self-care measures include gargling with warm salt water (one half teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) several times a day, and taking pain relievers such as acetaminophen.
Expectations (prognosis)
The probable outcome is good; nearly all symptoms resolve in one week. Treatment prevents serious complications associated with streptococcal infections.
Calling your health care provider
See your health care provider if you develop symptoms of streptococcal pharyngitis.
Also, call if you have had streptococcal pharyngitis and symptoms of complications develop.
Prevention
Avoid contact with a person known to be infected with strep throat. Many cases are not preventable.