IMPACT ON EMPIRIC TREATMENT OF GROUP-A STREPTOCOCCAL PHARYNGITIS USING AN OPTICAL IMMUNOASSAY

The potential impact of using a rapid diagnostic test (Strep A OIA) on detection and treatment of group A beta-hemolytic streptococcal (GABH S) pharyngitis in a large-volume pediatric and adolescent clinic was e xamined. Of 519 swabs processed for bath culture and the OIA test, 114 were culture-positive for GABHS compared with 133 positive by the OIA test, for an agreement of 94%. OLA test sensitivity compared with cul ture was 96%, and specificity was 94%. Forty-seven percent of all stud y patients were empirically placed on antibiotics. In-clinic OIA testi ng could have reduced inappropriate therapy and been a cost-effective ire alternative to culture.