Pharyngitis, streptococcal

Alternative names:

strep throat; streptococcal pharyngitis

Definition:

An inflammation of the pharynx (the part of the throat between the tonsils and the larynx) caused by streptococcus infection.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Group A Beta-hemolytic streptococci are the most common bacterial cause of pharyngitis. It occurs most commonly from October to April, in children 5 to 10 years old. The infection is spread by direct person-to-person contact with nasal secretions or saliva. The organism may colonize the throats of people without producing symptoms. Small children frequently have symptoms too mild for diagnosis. Risk factors include recent strep throat in family or household members. The incidence is 5 out of 1000 people.