Evaluation and management of adult pharyngitis

Abstract

The main goal in the evaluation of adults with sore throat is identifying those likely to have group A b-hemolytic streptococci (GABHS), or "streptococcal pharyngitis." Adults should be assessed for 1) fever, 2) absence of cough, 3) tender anterior cervical lymphadenopathy, and 4) tonsillar swelling or exudate. A strategy that results in about 40% of adults getting a streptococcal test and fewer than 20% getting antibiotics is detailed.