Acute simple pharyngitis is an acute inflammation of the mucous membrane and submucosal tissues of the pharynx. The lymphoid tissues of the pharynx are often involved as well. In the early stages, the inflammation may be localized to a specific area, but as the condition progresses, it can often affect the entire pharyngeal cavity.

bubble_chart Etiology

Primary inflammation is mainly caused by hemolytic streptococci. Non-hemolytic streptococci, pneumococci, staphylococci, Haemophilus influenzae, and viruses can also be pathogenic. In infants and young children, it often serves as a precursor or complication of certain acute infectious diseases such as measles, scarlet fever, influenza, and rubella. In adults and older children, it often follows acute rhinitis, sinusitis, and tonsillitis. The disease spreads through respiratory droplets, contaminated food, or direct contact. It is more common in autumn, winter, and spring, and is more likely to occur when overall resistance is weakened.

bubble_chart Pathological Changes

The pharyngeal mucosa is congested and swollen, with increased secretion from the mucous glands and serous exudation, so the mucosal surface is covered with a layer of thick, viscous mucus. There is infiltration of granular leukocytes and lymphocytes around the submucosal blood vessels and glands. The involvement of pharyngeal lymphoid tissue causes swelling of the lymphatic follicles.

bubble_chart Clinical Manifestations

The onset is relatively acute, often occurring simultaneously with acute rhinitis. Initially, there is a sensation of dryness in the throat, cutaneous pruritus, mild pain, burning, and a foreign body sensation. In severe cases, it may be accompanied by fever, headache, loss of appetite, and general malaise. The sore throat gradually worsens, affecting swallowing and making eating difficult. When the inflammation involves the lateral pharyngeal bands, severe radiating ear pain and neck pain may occur, limiting head and neck movement. Examination of the pharynx reveals acute congestion and edema of the mucous membrane. When the soft palate and uvula are significantly swollen, speech often takes on a nasal tone. The posterior pharyngeal lymphoid follicles and lateral bands appear red and swollen, and the submandibular lymph nodes may be enlarged and tender.

Based on the medical history, clinical manifestations, and pharyngeal examination findings, this disease is easily diagnosed. However, attention should be paid to distinguishing it from the prodromal or concurrent symptoms of acute pestilence, especially in children, which is particularly important. Additionally, it is necessary to differentiate it from blood nature of disease angina. The severity of this condition is related to various factors. If caused by highly virulent bacterial infection, the total white blood cell count and neutrophil percentage in the peripheral blood will be significantly elevated, with severe systemic symptoms. To identify the pathogenic bacteria, throat swab culture and bacterial drug sensitivity tests are commonly used. Antibody testing and assessment of immune function are also very important for this disease.

bubble_chart Treatment Measures

Take rest, drink plenty of water, and consume light, easily digestible food. Administer appropriate treatment based on the condition. If fever or sore throat occurs, promptly apply physical cooling and antipyretic measures, such as lukewarm water or 75% alcohol sponge baths, or placing an ice pack on the head. Common medications include oral APC or intramuscular injections of Antondine. Maintain oral hygiene by using alkaline gargles to dissolve thick secretions in the throat, often with compound borax solution. In the initial stage of the illness, apply 1% iodine glycerin or 2% silver nitrate to the pharyngeal wall to help reduce inflammation. If the inflammation spreads to the larynx or trachea, consider appropriate antibiotic and hormone aerosol inhalation therapy, typically once or twice daily (e.g., 160,000 units of gentamicin plus 5 mg of dexamethasone per session). For severe cases, intramuscular or intravenous penicillin is the first choice due to its effectiveness against hemolytic streptococcus. Switch to stronger antibiotics as needed.

AD

TCM can effectively treat dry eye syndrome, floaters, retinopathy, and various chronic eye diseases

When the body's resistance is low or treatment is deficient, the spread of inflammation can lead to complications such as otitis media, sinusitis, laryngitis, tracheobronchitis, and pneumonia. If pathogenic bacteria or their toxins enter the bloodstream, as in septic pharyngitis, systemic and local symptoms can become severe, potentially resulting in complications like acute nephritis, wind-dampness fever, and sepsis.