Streptococcal Pharyngitis

Strep throat is a throat infection caused by group A streptococcus bacteria, which causes inflammation of the pharynx and the tonsils. It is distinguished from the more common viral conditions by some of its clinical features.

Frequent symptoms:

• Sore throat of rapid onset
• Fever and general malaise
• Difficulty or discomfort when swallowing
• Tender lymph nodes in the neck

When to see a doctor? An evaluation is advisable when the sore throat is severe, comes with high fever, or does not improve, since confirming the bacterial origin requires professional study.

Which specialist treats it? The general practitioner is usually the first point of contact, and depending on the case the infectious disease specialist or the emergency physician may step in. The wisest thing is not to self-medicate and to let a professional confirm the diagnosis and define the appropriate follow-up.