[Update on current care guidelines: sore throat]

Abstract

Sore throat (pharyngitis) is typically a viral infection. Patients should be informed that pharyngitis is usually a mild, self-healing disease. Throat swab is recommended for adults with two or more symptoms: fever over 38 degrees C, swollen submandibular lymph nodes, tonsillar exudate and no cough. Children under 15 years of age with any of these symptoms should be tested. If antibiotic is indicated, penicillin is the preferred choice, whereas first generation cephalosporins are recommended for those with penicillin allergy. Antibiotics can be started for patients with high fever before culture results are available. Adequate pain medication is important.