What bacteria cause suppurative tonsillitis?

Written by Yao Jun
Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
Updated on September 17, 2024
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Purulent tonsillitis primarily refers to an acute purulent inflammation of the tonsils, often accompanied by varying degrees of mucosal lymphatic tissue inflammation. The primary bacterium responsible for this condition is Group A beta-hemolytic Streptococcus, although non-hemolytic Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, as well as adenovirus, rhinovirus, and simplex herpes virus can also cause purulent tonsillopharyngitis. Mixed bacterial and viral infections are not uncommon, and in recent years, there has been an increase in yeast and Gram-negative bacilli infections. The pathogens of acute purulent tonsillitis can be transmitted via droplets or direct contact. Normally, some pathogens reside in the crypts of the pharynx and tonsils of healthy individuals. When the body's resistance is lowered, the pathogens proliferate extensively, and their toxins damage the crypt epithelium, allowing bacteria to invade the tissue and cause purulent changes. Factors such as exposure to cold, dampness, excessive fatigue, excessive smoking and drinking, and exposure to harmful gases can provoke this disease. Avoiding spicy and irritating foods, gargling with salt water, and maintaining oral hygiene are measures that can prevent or mitigate the occurrence of this condition.

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Written by Du Jun
Otolaryngology
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What does suppurative tonsillitis look like?

Purulent tonsillitis refers to the acute purulent inflammation of the tonsils, which include the palatine tonsils, pharyngeal tonsils, and tubal tonsils. This text specifically refers to the palatine tonsils. The main cause is bacterial infection, with bacteria such as Staphylococcus and Streptococcus pneumoniae. On examination, purulent tonsillitis can be identified by enlarged tonsils with pus points on the surface. Patients may experience throat pain, fever, and sometimes accompanying symptoms such as cough and a foreign body sensation in the throat. The treatment of acute suppurative tonsillitis primarily involves penicillin and second-generation cephalosporins, and timely and effective treatment can lead to significant relief of symptoms.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Is suppurative tonsillitis serious?

Purulent tonsillitis is an acute purulent infection of the tonsils, generally considered relatively severe. Clinically, it manifests as severe throat pain, systemic fever, and chills and discomfort, making the symptoms relatively severe. In clinical treatment, it is important to conduct aggressive anti-infection treatment, mainly through intravenous infusion, such as the use of cephalosporin antibiotics, and the concurrent use of some corticosteroids to enhance the anti-infection effect. It is important to drink plenty of water, replenish bodily fluids, and use some heat-clearing and detoxifying traditional Chinese medicines, such as Banlangen oral liquid, which can be used simultaneously for adjunctive treatment. (Specific medications should be used under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Can suppurative tonsillitis heal itself?

Purulent tonsillitis is a relatively severe acute infectious inflammation of the tonsils, clinically characterized by severe throat pain and difficulty swallowing, even leading to difficulty in eating. The pain worsens during swallowing, and patients may experience symptoms like chills and fever. Therefore, purulent tonsillitis generally cannot heal on its own and requires active intervention. Active anti-infection treatment is necessary, as it cannot be expected to resolve spontaneously. Clinical treatment primarily involves the use of antibiotics, such as cephalosporins, and may even include infusion and other anti-infection treatments.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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What is suppurative tonsillitis?

Purulent tonsillitis is generally caused by an acute bacterial infection, though a small number of patients may also have a viral infection. It is a relatively common disease in the field of otolaryngology. In terms of examination, the first step is to perform an indirect laryngoscopy to observe the extent of inflammation in the throat. In addition, a complete blood count and inflammatory protein tests can be considered to help assess the severity of the inflammatory response. Additionally, bacterial culture and drug sensitivity tests of the purulent secretion can be considered, allowing for a more targeted choice of medication. Empirical treatment mainly involves the use of antibiotics to combat the infection, and it is recommended to combine this with nebulization. Oral administration of traditional Chinese medicine can also be used as supplementary treatment, generally needing about one week. Note: Medication should be used under the guidance of a doctor.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Can you eat strawberries with suppurative tonsillitis?

Suppurative tonsillitis is a severe, acute inflammatory infection of the tonsils. Clinically, the symptoms are quite severe, with patients experiencing intense throat pain, chills, fever, etc. The clinical treatment mainly involves the use of antibiotics. The diet for suppurative tonsillitis should be nutritious, light, and easy to digest. Strawberries are a very good and tasty fruit, and generally, they can be eaten, but not in excess. This is because suppurative tonsillitis requires us to maintain a balance of cold and warm temperatures, avoiding food that is too cold or too hot. Strawberries can be consumed in moderation, not excessively. In summary, patients with suppurative tonsillitis can eat strawberries, but not too much, as strawberries are essentially a cold food.