Pediatric Pharyngitis : Etiology and Management Approaches

Background: Acute pharyngitis is infection of the tonsils and the pharynx and is very common among children and adolescents. They can be viral or bacterial in origin. The causative organism varies from geography, age, and season of infection. Although viral pharyngitis is more common, the complications of bacterial pharyngitis can be severe, and thus proper identification of the cause and management is very important. Methodology: We conducted this review using a comprehensive search of MEDLINE, PubMed, and EMBASE, January 1985, through February 2017. The following search terms were used: acute pharyngitis, pediatric pharyngitis, bacterial infection, streptococcus pharyngitis, viral pharyngitis, rapid strept test, throat culture Aim: In this review, we aim to study the common causative organisms of acute pharyngitis among pediatric population and study the best course of management that must be followed.   Conclusion: Acute pharyngitis is a relatively common disease, with a viral cause most likely. An etiology due to a streptococcal infection is a major concern and should always be ruled out due to its association with significant morbidity and mortality. Long-term sequelae of streptococcal pharyngitis include rheumatic fever, rheumatic heart disease, and acute post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis