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Pharyngitis
DefinitionPharyngitis is an inflammation of the pharynx that frequently results in a sore throat. It may be caused by a variety of microorganisms.
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Pharyngitis is caused by a variety of microorganisms. Most cases are caused by a virus, including the virus causing the common cold, flu (influenza virus), adenovirus, mononucleosis, HIV, and various others.
Bacterial causes include Group A streptococcus, which causes strep throat, in addition to corynebacterium, arcanobacterium, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia pneumoniae, and others. In up to 30% of cases, no organism is identified.
Most cases of pharyngitis occur during the colder months -- during respiratory disease season. It often spreads among family members.
Strep throat is a serious cause of pharyngitis. The complications of strep throat can include acute rheumatic fever, kidney dysfunction, and severe diseases such as bacteremia and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome.
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• Definition
• Pharyngitis Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Pharyngitis Symptoms & Signs
• Pharyngitis Diagnosis & Tests
• Pharyngitis Treatment
• Pharyngitis Prognosis
• Pharyngitis Complications
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Rheumatic Fever
• Strep Throat
Tests & Exams
• Streptococcal Screen
• Throat Swab Culture
Other Topics
• Fever
• Sore Throat
• Swollen Glands
Review Date : 5/21/2003
Reviewed By : A.D.A.M. editorial. Previous review by Rocio Hurtado, M.D., Infectious Diseases Division, Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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