pharyngoconjunctival fever
Pronunciation: fair-in-go-kon-junk-TIE-val
Adenoviral syndrome combining pharyngitis, conjunctivitis, and fever, commonly seen in summer camps and pools.
Full Definition
Pharyngoconjunctival fever (PCF) is a distinctive clinical syndrome caused by adenovirus, typically serotypes 3, 4, and 7. The condition is characterized by the triad of fever, pharyngitis, and acute follicular conjunctivitis. It commonly affects school-age children and is frequently associated with swimming pools and summer camp outbreaks due to inadequate chlorination. The conjunctivitis is typically bilateral and may be accompanied by preauricular lymphadenopathy. The illness is self-limiting but highly contagious.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate only when used as a compound modifier; PCF acceptable in clinical notes.
In Context
- "The camp outbreak of pharyngoconjunctival fever was linked to inadequate pool chlorination." — Public health investigation
- "Pharyngoconjunctival fever should be suspected in children with concurrent red eyes and sore throat." — Clinical practice guideline