Editorial

Are Clinical Scoring Systems for the Diagnosis of Group A β-Hemolytic Streptococci Pharyngitis Useful?

Authors: Robertino Mera, MD, PhD

Abstract

Acute bacterial pharyngitis is the third most commonly seen infectious disease and the second most common reason for which antibiotics are prescribed. Children with acute, untreated pharyngitis spread group A streptococci (GAS) by airborne salivary droplets and nasal discharge. Transmission is favored by close proximity, with home and the school being important environments that favor spread. The incubation period for pharyngitis is usually two to five days. GAS or “strep throat” seems to be the main concern of parents with symptomatic children, but fewer than 30% of children actually have the strep infection, and the prevalence of GAS varies from 15 to 20% of asymptomatic children.

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