[Epidemiologic aspects of the laboratory diagnosis of streptococcal infections]

Current status and prospects of laboratory diagnosis of streptococcal infections are analyzed. Available investigation schedules and methods for the detection and identification of Streptococcus pyogenes are assessed in epidemiologic terms. The importance of early laboratory diagnosis of first instances of disease is emphasized. Laboratory tests for streptococcal infection are an important element of prompt epidemiologic evaluation. They are to provide a preventive action rather than state fully-developed epidemics of scarlet fever or angina, as practiced currently. Approaches to the determination of the group and type of the causative agents are assessed critically. Additional investigation methods are presented and described.