Summary: Acute pharyngitis (pharyngotonisllitis/tonsillitis) is one of the most common infectious diseases in general practitioners’ offices. Most cases of acute pharyngitis are caused by respiratory viruses and are self-limited. Among the bacterial causes, the most important agent is Streptococcus pyogenes or group A b-haemolytic streptococcus (GABHS), which is responsible for 5–30% of the episodes. In the diagnostic process, the appropriate differentiation between viral and bacterial pharyngitisis are crucial as it leads to proper use of antibiotics. In general practice, a diagnosis is mainly based on clinical criteria, in some cases supported by additional tests. Despite many guidelines and recommendations overdiagosis of bacterial pharyngitis often occurs, resulting in unnecessary prescriptions of antibiotics. The aim of the treatment, both viral and bacterial pharyngitis is speeding up symtopm resolution, reducing the intensity of symptoms and preventing complications.