[Epidemic outbreak of acute post streptococcal glomerulonephritis]

An outbreak of post streptococcal acute glomerulonephritis (PSAGN) was recorded in the South East Health Service (SEHS) of Santiago, Chile, between 1984 and 1987. Some aspects related to its epidemiology and natural history are discussed. This outbreak was preceded by streptococcal skin infection (SSI) in 60% of cases vs. 36% during the previous period. At the same time it was observed an increased isolation rate of group A beta hemolytic streptococci (GABHS) of skin origin, and a high prevalence of anti-DNase B antibodies (ADB) in the general population, what reveals an important skin-GABHS reservoir in the community. In Chile, skin infections with GABHS are frequently secondary to scabies. The trend of scabies in the last years has been similar to that of PSAGN. The need for control and treatment of scabies is emphasized to interrupt the epidemiological chain. The protection of household contacts with Benzathin Penicillin is recommended because lower secondary attack rate has been observed in prophylaxis versus non protected groups.