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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