Overview
Introduction
Tonsillitis is inflammation of the palatine tonsils, often occurring with inflammation of the surrounding pharynx.
Tonsillitis is inflammation of the palatine tonsils, often occurring with inflammation of the surrounding pharynx. Most acute cases are viral: group A beta-haemolytic Streptococcus (GAS) causes approximately 5–15% of adult and 20–30% of paediatric presentations. The first bedside question is therefore not simply “Is this strep?” It is whether the patient can maintain the airway, swallow secretions, and take enough fluid to remain hydrated. Once those threats are excluded, the overall symptom pattern helps estimate GAS risk and determine whether testing or antimicrobial treatment is appropriate.