strep throat

pathology

Also known as: streptococcal pharyngitis

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Last updated

July 23, 2026

Quick Summary

Strep throat is an inflammatory sore throat caused by hemolytic Group A streptococci bacteria. It is a common type of pharyngitis, which is an inflammation of the throat's mucous membranes.12

Symptoms typically include a very sore throat, fever, redness and swelling of the throat, and sometimes a pustulant fluid on the tonsils. Children may also experience abdominal pain, nausea, headache, and irritability.2

If left untreated, a streptococcal throat infection can lead to rheumatic fever, a serious inflammatory disease affecting the heart, joints, nervous system, and tissues. Diagnosis is usually made through a throat culture, and treatment typically involves antibiotics like penicillin for bacterial infections.32

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scarlet fever
…to streptococcal pharyngitis, commonly called strep throat, and is frequently referred to as “strep throat with a rash.” The major difference between the two illnesses is that the scarlet fever bacterium gives rise to an antigen called the erythrogenic (“redness-producing”) toxin, which is responsible for the characteristic rash.
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…to streptococcal pharyngitis, commonly called strep throat, and is frequently referred to as “strep throat with a rash.” The major difference between the two illnesses is that the scarlet fever bacterium gives rise to an antigen called the erythrogenic (“redness-producing”) toxin, which is responsible for the characteristic rash.
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pharyngitis
…streptococcal pharyngitis (commonly known as strep throat) are generally redness and swelling of the throat, a pustulant fluid on the tonsils or discharged from the mouth, extremely sore throat that is felt during swallowing, swelling of lymph nodes, and a slight fever. Children often experience additional symptoms, including abdominal pain,…
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…streptococcal pharyngitis (commonly known as strep throat) are generally redness and swelling of the throat, a pustulant fluid on the tonsils or discharged from the mouth, extremely sore throat that is felt during swallowing, swelling of lymph nodes, and a slight fever. Children often experience additional symptoms, including abdominal pain,…
Read More