Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 7, 2026

Efficient Isolation Protocol for B and T Lymphocytes from Human Palatine Tonsils
Published on: November 16, 2015
[Therapeutic possibilities in recurrent infantile tonsillitis]
I de Miguel Martínez1, A Ramos Macías, J L Muñoz Bellido
1Servicio de Microbiología, Hospital Insular de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.
Penicillin plus metronidazole is more effective for treating recurrent tonsillitis in children than penicillin alone. This combination therapy addresses a wider range of bacteria, reducing treatment failures in pediatric patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric infectious diseases
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Recurrent tonsillitis is a common pediatric condition.
- Penicillin monotherapy has shown limitations in treating certain bacterial strains causing tonsillitis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of two treatment protocols for recurrent tonsillitis in children.
- To evaluate penicillin versus penicillin plus metronidazole therapy.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 40 children with recurrent tonsillitis.
- Group 1: Penicillin treatment (20 children).
- Group 2: Penicillin plus metronidazole treatment (20 children).
- Clinical and microbiological assessments were performed.
Main Results:
- The combination of penicillin and metronidazole demonstrated superior efficacy.
- This enhanced effectiveness is likely due to activity against Streptococcus pyogenes and anaerobic bacteria.
- The penicillin-only group exhibited a high failure rate.
Conclusions:
- Combined penicillin and metronidazole therapy is more effective for childhood recurrent tonsillitis.
- Current penicillin monotherapy guidelines may need revision.
- Targeting both aerobic and anaerobic bacteria is crucial for successful treatment.
Related Concept Videos
Upper Respiratory Drugs: Antitussives, Expectorants, and Mucolytics
Antitussives include codeine, dextromethorphan (Robitussin), and benzonatate (Tessalon). Codeine and dextromethorphan exert their effects centrally by suppressing the cough reflex center in the medulla. Benzonatate operates peripherally within the respiratory tract by anesthetizing...
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 I: Introduction
Etiology
Three primary contributing factors have been identified.
Tonsillitis II: Management
Streptococcal Pharyngitis

