Pharyngitis in Children and Adults

Pharyngitis is a common presenting complaint in primary care. While viruses are the most common cause, group A beta hemolytic Streptococcus infection (GABHS), ABHS can be the cause in children (15%–30%) and adults (5%–10%). The primary reason to identify and treat GABHS is to decrease the risk of acute rheumatic fever. A growing concern is the indiscriminate use of antibiotics, which may increase the incidence of allergic reactions to antibiotics and the emergence of resistant strains of pathogenic bacteria. This CME activity helps clinicians estimate the probability of GABHS based on the symptoms of the patient. The probability is used to identify a cost effective strategy for diagnosing and treating GABHS for that patient.

• Link to Resource on MedEdPORTAL Continuing Education
• Link to Resource on University of Michigan CME website