Pharyngitis

Definition:

An inflammation of the pharynx (the part of the throat between the tonsils and the larynx) that produces a sore throat.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Pharyngitis is most often caused by a viral infection (95%) or by a bacterium (5%). If caused by the Group A streptococcus, it is called strep throat. The chronic form can be caused by a continuing infection of the sinuses, lungs, or mouth; or by constant irritation from smoking, breathing heavily polluted air, consuming too much alcohol, or by swallowing substances that scald, corrode or scratch the throat. Pharyngitis is a common illness.