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Evaluation of the therapy for streptococcal pharyngitis using Abbott Test Pack strep A
H Kayaba1, H Tamura, Y Fujiwara
1Department of Pediatrics and Pediatric Surgery, Fujiwara Memorial Hospital, Akita, Japan.
Acta Paediatrica Japonica : Overseas Edition
|February 1, 1996
Summary
The Abbott Test Pack Strep A (ATPSA) is effective for diagnosing streptococcal pharyngitis in children. Most children clear the infection within four days of treatment, with low rates of treatment failure.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Background:
- Streptococcal pharyngitis is a common childhood infection.
- Accurate and rapid diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and preventing complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of the Abbott Test Pack Strep A (ATPSA) in diagnosing streptococcal pharyngitis in children.
- To assess treatment efficacy and recurrence rates.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 953 children diagnosed with streptococcal pharyngitis using ATPSA or throat cultures.
- Repeated ATPSA testing during and after treatment to monitor clearance.
- Tracking of treatment failure and recurrent infections.
Main Results:
- ATPSA became negative in most children by the fourth day of treatment (lowest positive rate 9.2%).
- Bacteriological treatment failure (persistent positive ATPSA after 14 days) occurred in 4.1% of cases.
- Recurrent infections were observed in 22.7% of children, with over 30% occurring within two months of the initial infection.
Conclusions:
- ATPSA is a valuable tool for rapid diagnosis of streptococcal pharyngitis.
- The test aids in confirming successful bacteriological treatment.
- Understanding recurrence patterns is important for managing pediatric streptococcal infections.