In streptococcal pharyngitis, which option best describes antibiotic therapy?

In streptococcal pharyngitis, which option best describes antibiotic therapy?

• A. Penicillin V or Amoxicillin (with Amoxicillin-clavulanate in some cases).
• B. Aztreonam.
• C. Pentoxifylline.
• D. Metronidazole.

Answer: (C)

Streptococcal pharyngitis is treated with a penicillin-class antibiotic because Group A Streptococcus is highly susceptible to beta-lactam antibiotics, making penicillin the most effective and narrowest-spectrum choice. The goal is to eradicate the organism, reduce symptoms and contagiousness, and prevent rheumatic fever and other complications. The best options are penicillin V or amoxicillin; many clinicians favor amoxicillin in children for palatability and convenient dosing. If a patient has a non-severe penicillin allergy, a first-generation cephalosporin such as cephalexin can be used. Macrolides like azithromycin or clarithromycin are alternatives for those with penicillin allergy, though resistance concerns exist. Other drugs listed are not appropriate for treating streptococcal pharyngitis.

Streptococcal pharyngitis is treated with a penicillin-class antibiotic because Group A Streptococcus is highly susceptible to beta-lactam antibiotics, making penicillin the most effective and narrowest-spectrum choice. The goal is to eradicate the organism, reduce symptoms and contagiousness, and prevent rheumatic fever and other complications. The best options are penicillin V or amoxicillin; many clinicians favor amoxicillin in children for palatability and convenient dosing. If a patient has a non-severe penicillin allergy, a first-generation cephalosporin such as cephalexin can be used. Macrolides like azithromycin or clarithromycin are alternatives for those with penicillin allergy, though resistance concerns exist. Other drugs listed are not appropriate for treating streptococcal pharyngitis.