Pharyngitis is a very common bacterial or viral infection of the throat (pharynx). The vast majority of cases are caused by viruses, while a minority are due to bacteria. The most serious bacterial pharyngitis is caused by
Pharyngitis is a very common bacterial or viral infection of the throat (pharynx). The vast majority of cases are caused by viruses, while a minority are due to bacteria. The most serious bacterial pharyngitis is caused by Staphylococcus aureus (golden staph), but by the most common is caused by Streptococci.
The infection is passed from one person to another in tiny water droplets in the breath, and most cases occur in winter.
Pharyngitis symptoms may vary from one day of mild discomfort to a severe infection that may cause dramatic swelling of the throat for more than a week.
Severe bacterial infections may rarely cause a throat abscess.
Most cases require no investigation, but if the infection is serious, a throat swab may be taken to identify the responsible bacteria and appropriate antibiotic. Blood tests may be performed if diseases such as glandular fever, which also cause throat pain, are suspected.
Pharyngitis treatment can be by aspirin, paracetamol or ibuprofen, anaesth