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11 Jul
Health, Wealth

Streptococcal Pharyngitis: A Comprehensive Overview

Streptococcal pharyngitis typically presents with acute onset of symptoms, characterized by a severe sore throat, fever, and painful swallowing. Clinical examination often reveals erythema and swelling of the tonsils, sometimes accompanied by purulent exudate. Tender cervical lymphadenopathy may also be present. These clinical findings, although suggestive, are not specific to streptococcal pharyngitis alone and may overlap with viral causes of pharyngitis.

Diagnosis is crucial to differentiate between bacterial and viral etiologies, as treatment strategies vary significantly. Rapid Antigen Detection Tests (RADTs) are commonly used for quick detection of Group A Streptococcus antigens directly from throat swabs, providing results within minutes. Despite their high specificity, negative RADT results may necessitate confirmatory throat cultures, particularly in cases with high clinical suspicion or in individuals at risk for complications.

Early and accurate diagnosis of streptococcal pharyngitis is essential to initiate appropriate antibiotic therapy promptly, alleviate symptoms, prevent complications such as rheumatic fever, and reduce transmission within communities.

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