A sore throat, also called pharyngitis, is a painful inflammation of the back part of the throat (pharynx). Pharyngitis can involve the tonsils (fleshy tissue that are part of the throat’s immune defenses). The most common cause of a sore throat is an infection with bacteria or a virus. However, not all sore throats are due to strep infections.

Group A Streptococcus (Strep) is known for causing strep throat, scarlet fever, and impetigo. Invasive group A strep infections can be severe, leading to diseases like pneumonia, sepsis, and toxic shock syndrome, and even a serious skin and tissue infection called necrotizing fasciitis. Longer-term complications of strep throat can include heart valve and kidney issues. If your child with strep throat exhibits serious symptoms, it’s essential to see a doctor promptly.

Poststreptococcal inflammatory syndromes, like acute rheumatic fever (ARF), can occur following a strep infection. Symptoms typically begin two to three weeks after the initial infection and can include fever, arthritis (joint inflammation), rashes, subcutaneous nodules (bumps under the skin), chorea (involuntary movements), and heart disease. The characteristic arthritis of ARF is migratory, moving from joint to joint.

Poststreptococcal Inflammatory Syndromes – HSS

Other strep strains produce byproducts that can cause a sore throat and sometimes lead to tonsillitis, an infection of the tonsils, or cause ear or sinus infections. Some strains produce a toxin that can lead to a characteristic skin rash or affect the heart, kidneys, or even the brain.

Research has shown that immune cells triggered by recurrent Strep A infections can enter the brain, causing inflammation that may lead to autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders in children. This inflammation is particularly concerning as it can have lasting impacts on brain health.

How Recurrent Strep A Infections Affect the Brain

Staphylococcus (Staph) and Streptococcus (Strep) bacteria can cause a wide variety of infections in humans and animals. Staphylococcal toxins are a common cause of food poisoning, while Streptococcus is known for more direct infections like strep throat and impetigo.

Staphylococcus & Streptococcus – University of Washington

To accurately diagnose whether a sore throat is due to a strep infection or another cause, medical professionals may use a rapid strep test or a throat culture. Understanding the specific cause of a sore throat is crucial for effective treatment and avoiding potential complications.

For more information on the differences between strep throat and other throat conditions, visit the following resources:

Is It Strep Throat or Something Else? | Tufts University School of Medicine
Is It Strep Throat or Something Else? | Tufts Now
Streptococcal infections – Infectious Disease | Northwell Health
Sore Throat (Pharyngitis) – Harvard Health