Figure 4.

Generalized approach to pharyngitis: Antimicrobial therapy should be initiated in patients who are severely ill or who are highly suspected of having streptococcal infections. Modified Centor and FeverPAIN scores of < 3 should be treated symptomatically with possible follow-up for worsening symptoms or delayed prescription if there are concerns about loss to follow-up. Those at risk of complications (elderly, frail, immunocompromised) might benefit from RADT to rule out bacterial causes. Severely ill patients should be referred immediately to the hospital or urgent care for immediate management and workup.

RADT—rapid antigen detection testing.

Adapted from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence.³⁸