Membranous tonsillitis: Aetiology, prevalence and prescribing patterns in patients with upper respiratory tract infection.

Background Membranous tonsillitis is one of the most common forms of acute tonsillitis in childhood. Although many different microorganisms may cause this disease, clinicians generally consider bacterial agents as a possible cause and prescribe a penicillin-group of antibiotic. This study aimed to determine the aetiology of membranous tonsillitis and prescribing errors. In addition, we investigated the effectiveness of epidemiological, clinical and laboratory parameters and their role in guiding treatment. Methods We did this retrospective study at the paediatric emergency department of a tertiary referral hospital including 423 outpatient children aged 0 to 18 years diagnosed with membranous tonsillitis. Results Group A beta-haemolytic streptococcus was found in 132 (31.2%) patients, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in 103 (24.3%), and other viral aetiologies in 188 (44.4%). The prescription rate of antibiotics in the EBV-positive group was 27%, and Downey cells were seen at a rate of 98% in this group. Only 7% of patients with a positive throat culture were started on appropriate antibiotics. Conclusion EBV and group A beta-haemolytic streptococcus were the most common causes of membranous tonsillitis. Throat culture and peripheral blood smears are the most useful tests for paediatric emergency clinicians; these are fast and can help ensure correct diagnosis and guide treatment in almost all patients.