Gonococcal pharyngitis, Sore Throat, Gonorrhea pharyngitis ; Definition, symptoms, Treatment

Gonococcal pharyngitis is a throat infection caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the same bacterium responsible for gonorrhea. It is transmitted through oral sexual contact with an infected partner.

Symptoms
Sore throat (often mild or mistaken for a common cold)

Redness and swelling in the throat

White or yellowish exudate on the tonsils

Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

Fever and headache (in some cases)

Diagnosis
Throat swab culture: Detects the presence of Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT): A highly sensitive test for bacterial detection.

Treatment
Ceftriaxone (intramuscular injection) + Azithromycin (oral dose)

Alternative antibiotics if resistance is suspected

Symptom management (pain relievers, hydration)

Prevention
Safe sexual practices (using condoms or dental dams)

Regular STI screenings for sexually active individuals

Avoiding oral contact with infected partners

#Gonococcal #pharyngitis #SoreThroat