Current Clinical Approaches in the Management of Pharyngitis: A Narrative Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52221/jvnus.v7i2.908Keywords:
antibiotic stewardship, diagnosis, pharyngitis, rapid testing, treatmentAbstract
Pharyngitis is one of the most common acute respiratory infections worldwide. It affects both kids and adults anda significant global health issue. Bacterial infections, such group A streptococcus (GAS), may lead to serious problems if they aren't treated, even though they are usually viral and go away on their own. This underscores the importance of accurate etiological differentiation and judicious antibiotic use. Methods: A methodical literature search was performed in PubMed and Google Scholar for papers published from 2020 to 2025. Twelve publications were selected and summarized to analyze contemporary diagnostic procedures, treatment methodologies, and antibiotic management treatments. Result: The st udy found that there are still problems, such as too many antibiotics being prescribed, not always following clinical recommendations, and not using fast diagnostic testing enough. Combining clinical scoring systems like Centor and McIsaac with rapid antigen detection tests (RADT), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT) makes diagnoses much more accurate, which means fewer people will be given antibiotics when they don't need them. Short-course antibiotic regimens have shown efficacy comparable to traditional long-term therapies, providing advantages such as reduced risk of antimicrobial resistance, less side effects, and decreased costs. Conclusions: Integrating evidence-based diagnostics with consistent guideline implementation and continuing education for healthcare professionals and patients is essential for optimizing antibiotic prescription and enhancing antibiotic stewardship in the management of pharyngitis
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Copyright (c) 2025 Ayu Hirdayanti, N. Juni Triastuti , Kaila Ulinnuha, Dinda Agustiana, Revalina Azlia Bilbina Balqis , M. Hizrian Erdin
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