What is the cause of cobblestone pharynx (inflammation of the pharynx with a cobblestone appearance)?

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From the Research

Cobblestone pharyngitis should be treated with prednisolone 1 mg/kg/day to rapidly improve symptoms and reduce the cobblestone appearance, as evidenced by a recent case report 1. This condition is characterized by the appearance of raised, bumpy tissue on the back of the throat, resembling cobblestones. The treatment approach focuses on addressing the underlying cause of the inflammation.

  • Key considerations in managing cobblestone pharyngitis include:
    • Identifying and treating the underlying cause, such as postnasal drip from allergies, chronic sinusitis, or acid reflux
    • Using medications like prednisolone to reduce inflammation, as shown in the case report 1
    • Implementing lifestyle modifications to alleviate symptoms and prevent further irritation
  • The use of prednisolone in this context is supported by the most recent and highest quality study available 1, which demonstrated rapid improvement in bronchial symptoms and reduction of the cobblestone appearance with this treatment.
  • Other studies, such as 2, provide general guidance on the approach to diagnosing and treating pharyngitis, but the specific recommendation for cobblestone pharyngitis is based on the most recent and relevant evidence 1.
  • It is essential to prioritize the treatment approach that addresses the underlying cause and reduces inflammation, as this will lead to the best outcomes in terms of morbidity, mortality, and quality of life.

References

Research

Pharyngitis: Approach to diagnosis and treatment.

Canadian family physician Medecin de famille canadien, 2020

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This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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