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Published on: February 23, 2014
Streptococcal pharyngitis: is penicillin still the drug of choice?
1Department of Pediatrics, Michigan State University, Kalamazoo Centre for Medical Studies 49008, USA.
Abstract:
With the advent of cephalosporins, penicillin appears to have lost some ground for treatment of Acute Group A Beta Hemolytic Streptococcal Pharyngitis. It has been argued for some time now whether penicillin should remain the drug of choice for the management of this infection. Evidence has been presented both in favour and against using penicillin for Group A beta hemolytic streptococcal (GABHS) pharyngotonsillitis. In this commentary, we review the available data in the current literature and conclude that penicillin should still remain the drug of first consideration for GABHS pharyngitis. If penicillin treatments were less effective now, the clinical and bacteriologic failure rates should be on the rise compared to the previous years.
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Acute Pharyngitis
Acute pharyngitis is the inflammation of the back of the throat (pharynx), commonly resulting in a sore throat. It is a frequently encountered condition that prompts individuals to seek medical advice.
Classification
Acute pharyngitis can be categorized based on its underlying cause:
Chronic Pharyngitis
Etiology
It often arises from persistent viral or bacterial infections affecting sinuses and tonsils.
Additional contributing factors include inadequate dental hygiene, mouth breathing, recurring tonsillitis, allergic rhinitis, laryngopharyngeal reflux, and exposure to smoke, chemicals, and other environmental pollutants. Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and pet dander, chronic cough, excessive voice usage,...
Tonsillitis II: Management
Production of Antibiotics
Streptococcal Pharyngitis
Atypical Pneumonia

