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Bacterial tonsillopharyngitis (Paediatrics)

Low urgency
Common-

Inflammation of the throat and tonsils caused by infection with a bacterium, usually group A streptococcus. It occurs from the age of two, but is more common during infancy, especially in school-age children.

It causes a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, high fever, pus in the tonsils and general discomfort.

Diagnosis is made clinically by interview and physical examination. Rapid antigen tests can be used for early detection.

Treatment is based on pain management with painkillers and antibiotics to treat the infection.

Talk to your paediatrician about early treatment, especially if the fever is persistent, the lymph nodes are oozing, or the pain is preventing proper feeding.

Bibliographic references
  1. Michael A. Rubin, Larry C. Ford, Ralph Gonzales. Faringitis, otalgia y síntomas de la porción superior de las vías respiratorias. Infecciones de la faringe y la cavidad bucal. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna. Volumen 1. 19ª Edición. 231:235.
  2. J. Mensa. Infecciones en otorrinolaringología. Infecciones de la faringe: faringitis. Farreras Rozman. Medicina Interna. Volumen II. Duodécima edición. 2498:2500.
  3. Alcaide ML, Bisno AL. Pharyngitis and epiglottitis. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2007; 21:449.
  4. Ellen R Wald. Group A streptococcal tonsillopharyngitis in children and adolescents: Clinical features and diagnosis. UpToDate. Sep 29, 2016.
  5. Jan E Drutz. Sore throat in children and adolescents: Symptomatic treatment. UpToDate. Sep 16, 2016.
Author
Dr. Sara Vitoria
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

Symptoms

    Red or swollen tonsils

    Sore throat

    Pus on tonsils

    Fever between 39ºC and 39.9ºC

    Feeling generally unwell

Symptoms to watch out for

Fever that doesn't subside with antipyretics (paracetamol, ibuprofen)
Difficulty breathing or drooling
Unilateral neck pain and swelling
Hoarseness
Difficulty opening the mouth
Difficulty swallowing

Self-care

Maintain hydration of 2 litres per day.
Consume beverages and foods that help relieve the pain (tea, soup, honey, etc.).
Check with your general practitioner about the prescription for antibiotics.
Avoid exposure to tobacco smoke.
Avoid spicy foods.
Consume over-the-counter analgesics and antipyretics in case of muscle pain or fever (Tº > 38ºC).
Relative rest, rest until symptoms subside.
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