Pediatrician's approach to diagnosis and management of group A streptococcal pharyngitis

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Group A streptococcal (GAS) pharyngitis is a common childhood illness, accounting for 20-30% of pediatric pharyngitis cases.
• Adherence to diagnostic and treatment guidelines is critical for preventing complications like rheumatic fever (RF).
• Italian National Institute of Health guidelines for GAS pharyngitis were published in 2012.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the adherence and application of Italian guidelines for GAS pharyngitis diagnosis and treatment among family pediatricians in the Abruzzo region.
• To identify knowledge gaps in GAS pharyngitis management among pediatricians.

Main Methods:

• A validated questionnaire was administered to family pediatricians in the Abruzzo region.
• Data were collected from 154 pediatricians, representing 88% of the region's total.
• Statistical analysis, including Spearman's correlation, was used to assess the relationship between knowledge and work experience.

Main Results:

• Out of 1232 total answers, 455 (37%) were incorrect, indicating widespread knowledge deficits.
• Only 8% of participants answered all questions correctly.
• An inverse correlation was found between knowledge of primary prophylaxis and pediatricians' work experience (Rho = -0.276, p = 0.048).

Conclusions:

• The majority of family pediatricians in Abruzzo exhibit significant knowledge gaps regarding GAS pharyngitis diagnosis and treatment.
• These findings align with studies from other countries, highlighting a common issue in pediatric practice.
• Targeted strategies are needed to enhance pediatrician awareness and application of GAS pharyngitis guidelines to reduce the incidence of rheumatic fever.