Validation of clinical prediction rules to guide decision making in inflamed sore throats of clinical-to-trial results.
FeverPAIN Score: Validated alternative to Centor. Optimized for primary care decisions regarding antibiotic strategies for acute sore throat.
Fever (in previous 24h)
Reported or measured temperature >38°C
Purulence (tonsillar exudate)
Visible white/yellow spots on tonsils
Attend Rapidly (≤3 days)
Presentation within 3 days of symptom onset
Inflamed (severely) tonsils
Marked redness/swelling on examination
No cough or coryza
Absence of viral URTI symptoms
Management Recommendation
Low risk (13–18%)
Symptoms unlikely to benefit from antibiotics. Provide self-care guidance.