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Even though recurrent tonsillitis is one of the most frequently encountered problems of childhood, its etiology and treatment are points of debate. We aimed to determine pathogenic bacteria of the tonsil core, the diagnostic ability of surface swab cultures to show the core pathogenic bacteria. The study group consisted of 58 children between ages 3 and 12 who had problems with recurrent tonsillitis and tonsillectomy was planned as treatment. Surface and core swabs were taken during tonsillectomy and aerobe and anaerobe cultures were performed. Pathogens could be detected in core cultures in 50 (86%) of 58 patients. In core cultures 26 (52%) isolates of Staphylococcus aureus,13 (26%) isolates of Haemophilus influenzae, 10 (20%) isolates of group A beta hemolytic streptococci, and small numbers of other organisms were detected. Surface swabs could detect pathogenic bacteria in 19 (33%) patients. Overall penicillin resistance was 48%. S. aureus and H. influenzae should be considered as pathogens for recurrent tonsillitis as well as group A beta hemolytic streptococci. We believe that the antibiotic decision should be made with keeping penicillin resistance in mind.