Microbial dynamics of purulent nasopharyngitis in children

This review presents the microbiological dynamic and therapeutic options in the management of purulent nasopharyngitis (NPT). The nasopharynx (NP) of healthy children is generally colonized by relatively non-pathogenic aerobic and anaerobic organisms, some of, which possess the ability to interfere with the growth of potential pathogens. Conversely, carriage of potential respiratory aerobic pathogen such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis, as well as some anaerobic bacteria (Peptostreptococcus, Fusobacterium and Prevotella spp.) increases during purulent NPT. The development of purulent NPT in children is associated with the pre-existing colonization by potential pathogens and the absence of interfering organisms in the NP. Controversy exists regarding the management of NPT as no conclusive evidence exists to date that the administration of antimicrobials will shorten the illness.