What is the primary indicator of strep throat during examination?

The primary indicator of strep throat during examination is the presence of tonsillar enlargement and exudate. In cases of streptococcal pharyngitis, healthcare providers typically observe the tonsils for signs of swelling, redness, and the presence of exudate, which appears as white or yellow patches. These physical signs are significant because they are more characteristic of strep throat compared to other conditions, such as viral pharyngitis, where symptoms might differ.

While symptoms like a cough, runny nose, or fever can occur in various infections, they are not definitive indicators of strep throat. In fact, a cough and runny nose are more commonly associated with viral illnesses. Fever can be present in both viral and bacterial infections, making it less specific as a sole indicator. Thus, when assessing for strep throat, tonsillar enlargement and the presence of exudate provide a clearer distinction of the infection, guiding further diagnostic testing and treatment options.