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Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcal pharyngitis in children younger than 5 years
1Department of Pediatrics C, Children's Medical Center of Israel, Petah, Tikva.
Israel Journal of Medical Sciences
|August 1, 1994
Summary
Group A Streptococcus (GABHS) infections are uncommon in children under two years old. Carrier rates for GABHS increase with age, reaching 22% by age five.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Group A beta-hemolytic Streptococcus (GABHS) is a common cause of pharyngitis in children.
- Distinguishing true infection from carrier status is crucial for appropriate management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of true GABHS infection and carrier status in young children presenting with pharyngitis.
- To evaluate the age-specific prevalence of GABHS in a pediatric community setting.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 152 children (3 months to 5 years) with pharyngitis symptoms.
- Nose and throat cultures for GABHS, with serial antistreptolysin (ASO) titers to define true infection versus carrier status.
Main Results:
- GABHS was detected in 23 children.
- True GABHS infection was only observed in children older than 2 years.
- GABHS carrier rates increased from 3% in the first year to 22% by age five.
Conclusions:
- The incidence of true GABHS infection in children under two years old is low.
- GABHS colonization is common in young children, with increasing prevalence up to age five.