strep throat [Streptococcus + AS, throte] , (Informal) an infection of the oral pharynx and tonsils caused by a hemolytic species of Streptococcus, usually belonging to group A. The infection is characterized by sore throat, chills, fever, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, and sometimes nausea and vomiting. The symptoms usually begin abruptly a few days after exposure to the organism in airborne droplets or after direct contact with an infected person. Also called streptococcal sore throat. ▪ OBSERVATIONS: The throat is diffusely red, and the tonsils often are covered with a yellow or white exudate. Diagnosis is confirmed by bacteriological culture and identification of the streptococcal bacteria in a specimen taken from the throat. Complications of strep throat are otitis media, scarlet fever, and sinusitis; other complications include acute glomerulonephritis and acute rheumatic fever. ▪ INTERVENTIONS: Treatment usually includes intramuscular injection of penicillin G benzathine or the administration of penicillin for 10 days. Erythromycin may be given to people allergic to penicillin. For recurrent infections, tonsillectomy may be recommended.
