What are the three characteristic findings of bacterial pharyngitis?

Bacterial pharyngitis, often caused by Group A Streptococcus, has specific clinical features that distinguish it from viral causes of sore throat. The characteristic findings include:

1. Tonsillar erythema and exudates: In bacterial infections, particularly streptococcal infections, the tonsils are typically swollen, red, and may have a white or yellow exudate. This is a prominent indicator of inflammation and infection.

2. Tender anterior cervical nodes: Swollen and tender lymph nodes in the anterior neck region are common in bacterial pharyngitis. This indicates that the body's immune response is reacting to a bacterial infection.

3. Palatal petechiae: Tiny, pinpoint red spots known as petechiae may appear on the soft palate and are often associated with streptococcal pharyngitis. Their presence is a reliable finding that supports a diagnosis of bacterial infection.

These findings help healthcare providers differentiate bacterial pharyngitis from viral pharyngitis, which would typically exhibit different symptoms, such as a runny nose and cough, less severe tonsillar involvement, and the absence of significant cervical lymphadenopathy.