Most sore throats are due to a viral infection.
Acute bacterial tonsillitis is more likely if there are tender and enlarged anterior cervical lymph nodes, fever and absence of coryzal symptoms.
If acute bacterial tonsillitis is suspected, and treatment opted for, the standard is Phenoxymethylpenicillin orally. See: Sore throat – acute | Health topics A to Z | CKS | NICE for advice about decision to treat.
C.M & G.T 23-10-26
Who to refer
The decision to refer should be based on the frequency and severity of the infections.
We can only accept referrals for consideration of tonsillectomy for patients who meet the following criteria
- Recurrent sore throats present for a period of over 1 year
- 7 infections in 1 year
- 5 infections/year for 2 consecutive years
- 3 infections/year for 3 consecutive years
- Significant impact on child’s education/school attendance or parental attendance at work.
Emergency referral:
- Refer to the A&E if suspicious of quinsy (peritonsillar abscess) or airway compromise
- Long term prophylactic antibiotic therapy is not recommended
