Tonsil Infection - Strep

Definition

• A bacterial infection of the tonsils caused by Strep
• Also called Strep tonsillitis

Symptoms

• The tonsils are lymph glands in the back of the throat. They stand guard on each side of the throat. Usually they are the size of a small cherry.
• Pain, discomfort or raw feeling of the throat
• Pain is made worse when swallows
• Other symptoms include sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck. General symptoms include headache, stomach pain, nausea and vomiting.
• Cough, hoarseness, red eyes, and runny nose are not seen with Strep throat. These symptoms point more to a viral cause.
• Scarlet fever rash (fine, red, sandpaper-like rash) is highly suggestive of Strep throat.
• If you look at the throat with a light, it will be bright red. The tonsil will be red and swollen, often covered with pus.
• Peak age: 5 to 15 years old. Not common under 2 years old unless sibling has Strep.

Tonsil Size

• Grade 1 - Can barely see the tonsil
• Grade 2 - Small tonsil
• Grade 3 - Tonsil half way to the midline
• Grade 4 - Tonsils are touching (called kissing tonsils)

Cause

• Group A Strep is the only common bacterial cause of a throat infection. (called Strep pharyngitis).
• Any infection of the throat usually also involves the tonsils. (called Strep tonsillitis)
• Strep accounts for 20% of sore throats with fever.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis can be confirmed by a Strep test on a sample of throat secretions.
• There is no risk to wait until a Strep test can be done.
• If your child has cold symptoms too, a Strep test is not needed.

Prevention of Spread to Others

• Good hand washing can prevent spread of infection.