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[Current diagnosis of acute pharyngitis].
- Source :
-
Wiener medizinische Wochenschrift (1946) [Wien Med Wochenschr] 2009; Vol. 159 (7-8), pp. 202-6. - Publication Year :
- 2009
-
Abstract
- Background: Throat infections with Group A Streptococci have a high incidence and are, therefore, a considerable health problem. It is, therefore, desirable to distinguish this bacterial infections from viral infections of the upper respiratory tract. We report about the application of an immunologic rapid antigen detection test for Group A Streptococci and its medical and economic implications.<br />Methods: In a cross-sectional cohort study, 30 family physicians documented the application of the test in 519 patients. Follow-up costs were compared with 109 family physicians who did not have access to the test.<br />Results: 40.27% of tests performed were positive for Streptococci. 99% of those patients received antibiotic treatment - predominantly with Penicillin. From those patients who had shown a negative test result, only 18.4% received antibiotic treatment. Both patients and physicians welcomed the availability of the test. We did not find any significant difference regarding the economic effect of the test.<br />Conclusions: The employment of a rapid antigen detection test for Group A Streptococci in patients with acute pharyngitis increases therapeutic certitude and guideline-conform prescription of antibiotics among family physicians. We, therefore, assume that potential side effects of unnecessary antibiotic treatments could be minimized.
- Subjects :
- Austria
Cephalosporins therapeutic use
Child
Cohort Studies
Cross-Sectional Studies
Early Diagnosis
Family Practice
Humans
Penicillins therapeutic use
Pharyngitis drug therapy
Pharyngitis immunology
Predictive Value of Tests
Streptococcal Infections drug therapy
Streptococcal Infections immunology
Streptococcus pyogenes drug effects
Antigens, Bacterial blood
Pharyngitis diagnosis
Reagent Kits, Diagnostic
Streptococcal Infections diagnosis
Streptococcus pyogenes immunology
Subjects
Details
- Language :
- German
- ISSN :
- 1563-258X
- Volume :
- 159
- Issue :
- 7-8
- Database :
- MEDLINE
- Journal :
- Wiener medizinische Wochenschrift (1946)
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 19412695
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.1007/s10354-009-0672-x