Pharyngitis is an inflammation of the pharynx. It frequently results in a sore throat. Pharyngitis may be caused by a variety of microorganisms.

Pharyngitis is caused by a variety of microorganisms. Most cases are caused by a virus, including the the common cold virus, flu (influenza) virus, adenovirus, mononucleosis, HIV, and various others.

Bacterial causes of pharyngitis include Group A streptococcus, which causes strep throat in about 15% of cases. Strep throat is a serious cause of pharyngitis. Other but less common bacteria found in sore throats include Corynebacterium, Arcanobacterium, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Chlamydia pneumoniae. In some cases, no organism is identified.

Most cases of pharyngitis occur during the colder months. It often spreads among family members.

• Sore throat
• Strep throat may be accompanied by fever, headache, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Viral pharyngitis may be associated with runny nose and postnasal drip
• Severe cases may be accompanied by difficulty swallowing and, rarely, difficulty breathing
• Additional symptoms are dependent on the microorganisms causing the infection

The health care provider will perform an examination of the pharynx to look for drainage or coating. The skin, eyes, and neck lymph nodes may be examined.

If your doctor thinks you mght have strep throat a streptococcal screen or throat swab culture may be done. Additional throat cultures or blood tests may be done depending on the suspected cause.