Pharyngitis, Tonsillitis, and Peritonsillar Abscess

Pharyngitis typically presents with sore throat, fever, and pharyngeal inflammation. More serious cases may progress to peritonsillar abscess (PTA). Infection or inflammation of the throat that primarily affects the palantine tonsils is considered tonsillitis, whereas infections involving the posterior pharynx are considered pharyngitis. Weber glands (a group of mucous salivary glands superior to the tonsil in the soft palate) have been implicated in the formation of PTA; one must consider their proximity to the trachea and to the carotid artery when pursuing fine needle aspiration. Treatment for all cases includes supportive care with antipyretics, analgesics, and fluids. Despite the much lower prevalence of group A beta-hemolytic Streptococcus infection (for which antibiotics is indicated), a staggering 49% to 57% of children and 64% of adults evaluated for pharyngitis receive an antibiotic prescription. Up to 90% of primary infections with HIV-1 are associated with acute retroviral syndrome, which can include pharyngitis 2 to 4 weeks after exposure.