Sore throat
Sore throat is a common reason for consultation of primary care physicians, pediatricians, and ENT specialists.
Acute sore throat is usually caused by viral infections of the pharynx. Bacterial pathogens, such as streptococci, are detected in tonsillopharyngitis in only 20%–35% of cases, depending on the seasonal and regional conditions and age group. Normally, sore throat is treated with a combination of drugs that include antibiotics and anti-inflammatories. A referral to ENT should be considered in case the sore throat is associated with difficulty breathing, neck lump or symptoms lasting for more than 6 weeks.
Tonsillectomy can be discussed in case of recurrent tonsillitis, previous peritonsillar abscesses, or in case a neoplasm is suspected.