Introduction
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, treat with Phenoxymethylpenicillin orally (or see the Lothian Joint Formulary in case of penicillin allergy).
C.M & G.T 24-04-23
Referrals can only be accepted for patients who meet the following criteria:
- Recurrent sore throats due to bacterial tonsillitis present for a period of 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
Please refer to the A&E department if suspicious of quinsy (peritonsillar abscess) or airways compromise.
- Long term prophylactic antibiotic therapy is not recommended
- The decision to refer should be based on the frequency and severity of the infections
