Final answer:
Pharyngotonsillitis is the inflammation of the pharynx and tonsils, typically caused by infection with viruses or bacteria such as Streptococcus pyogenes. Symptoms include fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and possibly a skin rash in cases of scarlet fever. Surgical removal of the tonsils may be considered for recurrent infections.
Step-by-step explanation:
Pharyngotonsillitis is the inflammation of the pharynx and the tonsils, typically caused by a viral or bacterial infection. The pharynx is a part of the throat situated behind the mouth and nasal cavity, and the tonsils are lymphoid tissues located in the pharynx which are part of the immune system. Pharyngotonsillitis is often seen with infections caused by viruses such as adenovirus, herpes simplex type 1, Epstein-Barr virus, and cytomegalovirus, or by bacterial pathogens including Streptococcus pyogenes (group A strep), which releases exoenzymes and exotoxins damaging the mucosal membranes of the pharynx.
Symptoms of pharyngotonsillitis may include fever, sore throat, inflammation of the pharynx and tonsils, pus-filled patches on the tonsils, petechiae (small spots caused by bleeding), and swollen lymph nodes. In some cases, the infection can lead to scarlet fever, which presents as a skin rash. Severe cases of bacterial pharyngotonsillitis may require antibiotic treatment to prevent complications and ease symptoms.
The palatine tonsils, which are part of the lymphatic system, help the body to recognize and eliminate pathogens. However, in cases of recurrent infections, especially in children, surgical removal of the tonsils may be recommended when they interfere with breathing or swallowing.