Centor Score Strep Throat Calculator
This online tool helps to diagnose cases of acute pharyngitis or strep throat and manage where antibiotic treatment is beneficial while avoiding unnecessary antibiotic use in cases where the infection is likely viral.
Use the Centor Score (with McIsaac Modification) to assess the likelihood of a bacterial infection, specifically, Group A Streptococcus (GAS), if you have the symptoms of sore throat.
Assess the four following criteria:
- Fever: Have you experienced a fever recently?
- Exudate or Swelling on Tonsils: Check your tonsils in a well-lit area. Do you see white or yellowish patches or pus?
- Tender/swollen Anterior Cervical Lymph Nodes: Gently feel your neck, have you any tenderness or swelling in the lymph nodes?
- Cough: Do you have any cough?
Results
- 0-1 points: Low likelihood of streptococcal infection; further testing may not be necessary.
- 2-3 points: Intermediate likelihood; further testing, such as a rapid strep test, is recommended.
- 4 points or higher: Higher likelihood; consider further diagnostic testing, and treatment with antibiotics may be indicated even before test results are available.
!!Note: Online tools or self-assessment should be seen as preliminary information and not a substitute for professional medical evaluation, especially in matters of infectious diseases. If you suspect strep throat or any other medical condition, it’s crucial to seek guidance from a qualified healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.