From the Research
Treating Group C streptococcal pharyngitis is generally recommended, particularly in symptomatic patients, to reduce symptom duration, prevent suppurative complications, and potentially reduce the risk of post-streptococcal sequelae, as supported by the most recent evidence 1. The first-line treatment is typically penicillin or amoxicillin, with alternatives for penicillin-allergic patients including clindamycin or macrolides. Key considerations in managing Group C streptococcal pharyngitis include:
- The use of clinical decision rules to assess the risk of streptococcal infection, followed by rapid antigen testing if the diagnosis is unclear 1.
- The importance of treating patients with severe symptoms, those at risk for complications, or in outbreak settings 2.
- Providing symptomatic relief with analgesics and adequate hydration alongside antibiotic therapy 3.
- Being aware of the potential for similar clinical illness and complications as Group A streptococcus, despite historical considerations of Group C being less pathogenic 2. The choice of antibiotic should be guided by the most recent and highest quality evidence, with penicillin and amoxicillin being first-line options due to their efficacy and safety profile, as discussed in recent studies 4.