Definition of Pharyngitis:

Pharyngitis, or sore throat, is discomfort, pain, or scratchiness in the throat. It often makes it painful to swallow.

See also:

• Infectious mononucleosis
• Strep throat

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Pharyngitis is caused by swelling (inflammation) of the pharynx, which is in the back of the throat, between the tonsils and the voicebox (larynx).

Most sore throats are cauesd by a viral infection, such as the cold or flu. Some viruses can cause specific types of sore throat, such as coxsackie infection or mononucleosis.

Bacteria that can cause pharyngitis include Group A streptococcus, which leads to strep throat in some cases.

Other, less-common bacteria that cause sore throats include corynebacterium, gonorrhea, and chlamydia.

Most cases of pharyngitis occur during the colder months. The illness often spreads among family members.