Definition
Pharyngotonsillitis is an acute infection that affects the pharynx and palatine tonsils.
Generally, the agent responsible for the disease is a virus (such as adenovirus and rhinovirus), which is transmitted mainly by air and by direct contact with infected objects. Less often, pharyngotonsillitis is due to bacteria, such as streptococci, staphylolococci or pneumococci.
In addition to the actual causal agents, it is necessary to remember the role played by some factors that can favor the appearance of the problem, such as exposure to low temperatures, inhalation of irritants and predominantly oral breathing.
Most common symptoms and signs *
- Lowering of the voice
- Halitosis
- Anorexia
- Anosmia
- Asthenia
- Chills
- Dysphagia
- Pharyngitis
- Temperature
- Dry throat
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Mass or swelling in the neck
- Closed nose
- Knot in the throat
- odynophagia
- Otalgia
- Throat Plates
- Throat itch
- Snoring
- Intense salivation
- Nasal voice
Further indications
Pharyngotonsillitis presents with sore throat, burning sensation and local dryness, painful enlargement of the cervical lymph nodes, fever and general malaise.
A distinctive element is pain (or difficulty) in swallowing (dysphagia); very young children can refuse to eat. The tonsils are red and / or swollen and sometimes have white or yellowish plaques on the surface (purulent exudates).
Other symptoms frequently associated with pharyngotonsillitis include halitosis, hypersalivation, lowering of the voice, ear pain during swallowing (odynophagia), headache and gastrointestinal disorders. In some cases, a non-specific rash may appear.
The diagnosis is based on clinical evaluation and is supported by rapid culture or antigenic tests to exclude the presence of group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus. If untreated, in fact, this pathogen can lead to local suppurative complications (eg peritonsillar abscess or cellulitis ) and, sometimes, rheumatic fever or glomerulonephritis.
Treatment depends on symptoms and, if the presence of group A beta-hemolytic strepococcus is confirmed, involves the administration of antibiotics. Pharyngotonsillitis management may include analgesia, hydration and rest.
