Acute Tonsillitis

Acute tonsillitis is acute inflammation of the palatine tonsils, most often viral, but group A strep in a significant subset. Clinical: sore throat, fever, dysphagia, tonsillar enlargement/exudates, cervical lymphadenopathy. Treatment: rest; hydration; analgesics/antipyretics; rapid strep test/culture; penicillin/amoxicillin if bacterial; treat peritonsillar abscess (needle drainage/ENT); tonsillectomy for recurrent/chronic tonsillitis meeting criteria.

Common Symptoms

Sore throat/fever; tonsillar exudates; cervical lymphadenopathy; dysphagia

Causes and Pathogenesis

Viral/bacterial infection causes tonsillar inflammation; untreated strep can cause rheumatic fever.

Treatment

Supportive care; antibiotics for strep; drain abscess if present; tonsillectomy if recurrent

Preventive Measures

Hand hygiene; avoid sharing utensils; treat early.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the ENT/General practice/Pediatrics department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.