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Pallon J, Sundqvist M, Hedin K. The use and usefulness of point-of-care tests in patients with pharyngotonsillitis - an observational study in primary health care. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2024; 25:15. [PMID: 38184547 PMCID: PMC10770901 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-023-02245-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rapid antigen detection tests (RADT) for Group A streptococci (GAS) and point-of-care tests for C-reactive protein (CRP) are commonly used in patients with pharyngotonsillitis in Sweden and Denmark although CRP testing is not supported by guidelines. We aimed to describe (1) the proportion of patients tested with RADT and/or CRP, (2) the relation between test results and antibiotic prescribing, and (3) the association between CRP level and microbial aetiology. METHODS We used a post-hoc-analysis of data collected in primary health care in a prospective aetiological study of 220 patients 15-45 years old diagnosed with pharyngotonsillitis. The outcomes of RADTs and CRP tests were related to antibiotic prescribing and microbial aetiology. RESULTS A RADT was used in 94% of the patients. A CRP test was used in 50% of the patients but more commonly in those with a negative RADT (59%) than in those with a positive RADT (38%) (p = 0.005). Most (74%) CRP tests were used in patients with a negative RADT. Antibiotic prescribing differed greatly between patients with a positive RADT (96%) and patients with a negative RADT (17%) (p < 0.001). In patients with a negative RADT, there was a positive association between CRP value and antibiotic prescribing (OR 1.05; 95% CI 1.02-1.07; p < 0.001). Patients with CRP values ≤ 30 mg/l were seldomly prescribed antibiotics. Patients with GAS in culture had the highest median CRP (46 mg/l), which was higher than in patients without GAS (8 mg/l; p < 0.001). However, the positive predictive value for GAS never exceeded 0.60 (95% CI 0.31-0.83) at the investigated CRP levels. CONCLUSIONS The widespread use of tests is a major deviation from national guidelines. Most CRP tests were used in patients with a negative RADT, suggesting a belief in the added value of a CRP test, and the CRP result seemed to influence antibiotic prescribing. However, as an aetiological test, CRP is not useful for predicting GAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon Pallon
- Department of Clinical Sciences in Malmö, Family Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden.
- Department of Research and Development, Region Kronoberg, Växjö, Sweden.
| | - Martin Sundqvist
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, Örebro, Sweden
| | - Katarina Hedin
- Department of Clinical Sciences in Malmö, Family Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Futurum, Region Jönköping County, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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2
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Pellegrino R, Timitilli E, Verga MC, Guarino A, Iacono ID, Scotese I, Tezza G, Dinardo G, Riccio S, Pellizzari S, Iavarone S, Lorenzetti G, Simeone G, Bergamini M, Donà D, Pierantoni L, Garazzino S, Esposito S, Venturini E, Gattinara GC, Lo Vecchio A, Marseglia GL, Di Mauro G, Principi N, Galli L, Chiappini E. Acute pharyngitis in children and adults: descriptive comparison of current recommendations from national and international guidelines and future perspectives. Eur J Pediatr 2023; 182:5259-5273. [PMID: 37819417 PMCID: PMC10746578 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-023-05211-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to provide a comparison of the current recommendations about the management of acute pharyngitis. A literature search was conducted from January 2009 to 2023. Documents reporting recommendations on the management of acute pharyngitis were included, pertinent data were extracted, and a descriptive comparison of the different recommendations was performed. The quality of guidelines was assessed through the AGREE II instrument. Nineteen guidelines were included, and an overall moderate quality was found. Three groups can be distinguished: one group supports the antibiotic treatment of group A β-hemolytic Streptococcus (GABHS) to prevent acute rheumatic fever (ARF); the second considers acute pharyngitis a self-resolving disease, recommending antibiotics only in selected cases; the third group recognizes a different strategy according to the ARF risk in each patient. An antibiotic course of 10 days is recommended if the prevention of ARF is the primary goal; conversely, some guidelines suggest a course of 5-7 days, assuming the symptomatic cure is the goal of treatment. Penicillin V and amoxicillin are the first-line options. In the case of penicillin allergy, first-generation cephalosporins are a suitable choice. In the case of beta-lactam allergy, clindamycin or macrolides could be considered according to local resistance rates. Conclusion: Several divergencies in the management of acute pharyngitis were raised among guidelines (GLs) from different countries, both in the diagnostic and therapeutic approach, allowing the distinction of 3 different strategies. Since GABHS pharyngitis could affect the global burden of GABHS disease, it is advisable to define a shared strategy worldwide. It could be interesting to investigate the following issues further: cost-effectiveness analysis of diagnostic strategies in different healthcare systems; local genomic epidemiology of GABHS infection and its complications; the impact of antibiotic treatment of GABHS pharyngitis on its complications and invasive GABHS infections; the role of GABHS vaccines as a prophylactic measure. The related results could aid the development of future recommendations. What is Known: • GABHS disease spectrum ranges from superficial to invasive infections and toxin-mediated diseases. • GABHS accounts for about 25% of sore throat in children and its management is a matter of debate. What is New: • Three strategies can be distinguished among current GLs: antibiotic therapy to prevent ARF, antibiotics only in complicated cases, and a tailored strategy according to the individual ARF risk. • The impact of antibiotic treatment of GABHS pharyngitis on its sequelae still is the main point of divergence; further studies are needed to achieve a global shared strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Pellegrino
- Department of Health Sciences, Postgraduate School of Pediatrics, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Edoardo Timitilli
- Department of Health Sciences, Postgraduate School of Pediatrics, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Alfredo Guarino
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Iride Dello Iacono
- Unit of Allergology, Division of Internal Medicine, Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Benevento, Italy
| | | | - Giovanna Tezza
- Department of Pediatrics, Ospedale San Maurizio, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Giulio Dinardo
- Department of Woman, Child and of General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
| | - Simona Riccio
- Department of Woman, Child and of General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
| | - Sofia Pellizzari
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Dentistry, Gynecology and Pediatrics, Pediatric Clinic, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Sonia Iavarone
- Department of Maternal, Infantile, and Urological Sciences, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Lorenzetti
- Residency School of Pediatrics, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Daniele Donà
- Division of Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Luca Pierantoni
- Pediatric Emergency Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Silvia Garazzino
- Department of Paediatrics, Infectious Diseases Unit, Regina Margherita Children's Hospital, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Susanna Esposito
- Paediatric Clinic, University Hospital, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | | | | | - Andrea Lo Vecchio
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Gian Luigi Marseglia
- Department of Pediatrics, Foundation IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Di Mauro
- Pediatric Primary Care, National Pediatric Health Care System, Caserta, Italy
| | - Nicola Principi
- Professor Emeritus of Pediatrics, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Luisa Galli
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Meyer Children's Hospital IRCCS, Florence, Italy
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 24, 50139, Firenze, Italy
| | - Elena Chiappini
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Meyer Children's Hospital IRCCS, Florence, Italy.
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 24, 50139, Firenze, Italy.
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Fu M, Gong Z, Li C, Ling K, Zhu Y, Li H, Shi L, Guan X. Appropriate use of antibiotics for acute respiratory infections at primary healthcare facilities in China: a nationwide cross-sectional study from 2017 to 2019. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. WESTERN PACIFIC 2023; 40:100880. [PMID: 37636127 PMCID: PMC10458636 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2023.100880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Background The appropriateness of antibiotic use for acute respiratory infections (ARIs) in Chinese primary healthcare facilities (PHFs) remained uncertain. We aimed to evaluate to what degree antibiotic prescribing for ARIs were aligned with guideline recommendations in primary settings across China. Methods We collected outpatient prescriptions from 262 Chinese PHFs in 27 cities of six provinces between 2017 and 2019. The appropriate antibiotic prescribing was defined as prescribing antibiotic classes that were recommended by Chinese clinical guidelines, if patients were prescribed antibiotics. We evaluated the magnitude of antibiotics prescribed for acute upper respiratory infections (AURIs), acute bronchitis, and community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) and their appropriateness. Findings Overall, 55.1% (87,684/159,150), 66.8% (30,836/46,153), and 68.5% (4615/6733) of outpatients with AURIs, acute bronchitis, and CAP treated at PHFs in China were prescribed with antibiotics. Of all antibiotic prescriptions, only 20.0% (17,542/87,684), 18.6% (5724/30,836) and 69.6% (3211/4615) used antibiotic classes that were recommended by the guidelines for AURIs, acute bronchitis, and CAP, respectively. Patients residing in the Chinese central region (17.0%, 15.4%, 69.3% for AURIs, acute bronchitis, and CAP, respectively) were less likely to be prescribed with antibiotics that were appropriately selected. Interpretation Unnecessary antibiotics were widely prescribed for patients with AURIs or acute bronchitis and most patients with ARIs did not receive guideline-recommended antibiotic classes in Chinese PHFs. Interventions to promote evidence-based treatment and the appropriate use of antibiotics are urgently needed at the primary level across China. Funding This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China [grant number 72074007, 81973294].
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyuan Fu
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- International Research Center for Medicinal Administration, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhiwen Gong
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Can Li
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Kexin Ling
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuezhen Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Huangqianyu Li
- International Research Center for Medicinal Administration, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Luwen Shi
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- International Research Center for Medicinal Administration, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaodong Guan
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- International Research Center for Medicinal Administration, Peking University, Beijing, China
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Hamilton F, Arnold D, Lilford R. Bad research is not all bad. Trials 2023; 24:680. [PMID: 37864198 PMCID: PMC10588138 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-023-07706-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
In this commentary, we discuss a recent article in Trials that raised concerns about the number of poorly performed randomised trials in the medical literature and discuss the trials literature more widely. Although we all aim for higher methodological standards in trials, we argue that (i) the idea that 'most randomised trials are bad', which the recent article concludes is an overly simplistic representation of the situation, and (ii) the suggestion that an increased focus on methodological review during trial development (e.g. ethical boards performing some assessment of the methodologists on a trial), while well meaning, may have negative unintended consequences. We therefore propose that (a) trials should be assessed on their merits and weaknesses, including an assessment of risk of bias but placing that in a wider context; (b) we should recognise that although the methodological conduct of trials is of utmost importance, interventions that aim to improve this could have unintended consequences-such as bureaucracy-that have an overall negative effect; and (c) we should therefore generate an evidence base for policy interventions to improve conduct of trials rather than applying arbitrary rules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fergus Hamilton
- Infection Science, Southmead Hospital, North Bristol NHS Trust, Bristol, BS10 5NB, UK.
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, Oakfield House, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS10 5NB, UK.
| | - David Arnold
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit, Oakfield House, University of Bristol, Bristol, BS10 5NB, UK
- Academic Respiratory Unit, Southmead Hospital, North Bristol NHS Trust, Bristol, BS10 5NB, UK
| | - Richard Lilford
- NIHR ARC West Midlands, Institute of Applied Health Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
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Milani GP, Rosa C, Tuzger N, Alberti I, Ghizzi C, Zampogna S, Amigoni A, Agostoni C, Peroni D, Marchisio P, Chiappini E. Nationwide survey on the management of pediatric pharyngitis in Italian emergency units. Ital J Pediatr 2023; 49:114. [PMID: 37670391 PMCID: PMC10481466 DOI: 10.1186/s13052-023-01514-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute pharyngitis is a frequent reason for primary care or emergency unit visits in children. Most available data on pharyngitis management come from primary care studies that demonstrate an underuse of microbiological tests, a tendency to over-prescribe antibiotics and a risk of antimicrobial resistance increase. However, a comprehensive understanding of acute pharyngitis management in emergency units is lacking. This study aimed to investigate the frequency of rapid antigen test use to diagnose acute pharyngitis, as well as other diagnostic approaches, the therapeutic attitude, and follow-up of children with this condition in the emergency units. METHODS A multicentric national study was conducted in Italian emergency departments between April and June 2022. RESULTS A total of 107 out of 131 invited units (response rate 82%), participated in the survey. The results showed that half of the units use a scoring system to diagnose pharyngitis, with the McIsaac score being the most commonly used. Most emergency units (56%) were not provided with a rapid antigen diagnostic test by their hospital, but the test was more frequently available in units visiting more than 10,000 children yearly (57% vs 33%, respectively, p = 0.02). Almost half (47%) of the units prescribe antibiotics in children with pharyngitis despite the lack of microbiologically confirmed cases of Group A β-hemolytic streptococcus. Finally, about 25% of units prescribe amoxicillin-clavulanic acid to treat Group A β-hemolytic streptococcus pharyngitis. CONCLUSIONS The study sheds light on the approach to pharyngitis in emergency units, providing valuable information to improve the appropriate management of acute pharyngitis in this setting. The routinary provision of rapid antigen tests in the hospitals could enhance the diagnostic and therapeutic approach to pharyngitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregorio P Milani
- Pediatric Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Della Commenda 9, 20122, Milan, Italy.
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Milan, Italy.
| | - Claudio Rosa
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Naz Tuzger
- Pediatric Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Della Commenda 9, 20122, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Ilaria Alberti
- Pediatric Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Della Commenda 9, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Stefania Zampogna
- SOC Pediatria, Azienda Sanitaria Provinciale Di Crotone, Crotone, Italy
| | - Angela Amigoni
- Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Carlo Agostoni
- Pediatric Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Della Commenda 9, 20122, Milan, Italy
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Diego Peroni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Pediatrics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Paola Marchisio
- Pediatric Unit, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Della Commenda 9, 20122, Milan, Italy
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Chiappini
- Pediatric Infectious Disease Unit, Department of Health Sciences, Meyer Children's University Hospital, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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6
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Touitou R, Bidet P, Dubois C, Partouche H, Bonacorsi S, Jung C, Cohen R, Levy C, Cohen JF. Diagnostic accuracy of a rapid nucleic acid test for group A streptococcal pharyngitis using saliva samples: protocol for a prospective multicenter study in primary care. Diagn Progn Res 2023; 7:13. [PMID: 37443047 DOI: 10.1186/s41512-023-00150-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Group A streptococcus is found in 20-40% of cases of childhood pharyngitis; the remaining cases are viral. Streptococcal pharyngitis ("strep throat") is usually treated with antibiotics, while these are not indicated in viral cases. Most guidelines recommend relying on a diagnostic test confirming the presence of group A streptococcus before prescribing antibiotics. Conventional first-line tests are rapid antigen detection tests based on throat swabs. Recently, rapid nucleic acid tests were developed; they allow the detection of elements of the genome of group A streptococcus. We hypothesize that these rapid nucleic acid tests are sensitive enough to be performed on saliva samples instead of throat swabs, which could be more convenient in practice. METHODS This is a multicenter, prospective diagnostic accuracy study evaluating the performance of a rapid nucleic acid test for group A streptococcus (Abbott ID NOW STREP A2) in saliva, compared with a conventional pharyngeal rapid antigen detection test (EXACTO PRO STREPTATEST, lateral flow assay, comparator test), with a composite reference standard of throat culture and group A streptococcus PCR in children with pharyngitis in primary care (i.e., 27 primary care pediatricians or general practitioners). To ensure group A streptococcus is not missed, the salivary rapid nucleic acid test requires a minimally acceptable value of sensitivity (primary outcome) set at 80%. Assuming 35% of participants will have group A streptococcus, we will recruit 800 consecutive children with pharyngitis. Secondary outcomes will include difference in sensitivity between the pharyngeal rapid antigen detection test and the salivary rapid nucleic acid test; variability in sensitivity and specificity of the salivary rapid nucleic acid test with the level of McIsaac score; time to obtain the result of the salivary rapid nucleic acid test; patient, physician, and parents satisfaction; and barriers and facilitators to using rapid tests for group A streptococcus in primary care. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Approved by the Institutional Review Board "Comité de protection des personnes Ile de France I" (no. 2022-A00085-38). Results will be presented at international meetings and disseminated in peer-reviewed journals. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT05521568.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Touitou
- Association Enseignement Formation Généralistes Hospitaliers - Croix Saint Simon, Paris, France
| | - Philippe Bidet
- Department of Microbiology, Robert Debré Hospital, AP-HP, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Constance Dubois
- Centre of Research in Epidemiology and Statistics (Inserm UMR 1153), Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Henri Partouche
- Department of General Practice, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Stéphane Bonacorsi
- Department of Microbiology, Robert Debré Hospital, AP-HP, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Camille Jung
- Clinical Research Centre, Centre Hospitalier Intercommunal de Créteil, Créteil, France
| | - Robert Cohen
- Association Clinique Et Thérapeutique Infantile du Val-de-Marne (ACTIV), Créteil, France
| | - Corinne Levy
- Clinical Research Centre, Centre Hospitalier Intercommunal de Créteil, Créteil, France
- Association Clinique Et Thérapeutique Infantile du Val-de-Marne (ACTIV), Créteil, France
| | - Jérémie F Cohen
- Centre of Research in Epidemiology and Statistics (Inserm UMR 1153), Université Paris Cité, Paris, France.
- Department of General Pediatrics and Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, AP-HP, Université Paris Cité, Paris, France.
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7
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Wächtler H, Kaduszkiewicz H, Kuhnert O, Malottki KA, Maaß S, Hedderich J, Wiese B, Donner-Banzhoff N, Hansmann-Wiest J. Influence of a guideline or an additional rapid strep test on antibiotic prescriptions for sore throat: the cluster randomized controlled trial of HALS (Hals und Antibiotika Leitlinien Strategien). BMC PRIMARY CARE 2023; 24:75. [PMID: 36941540 PMCID: PMC10029262 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-023-01987-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 03/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pharyngitis due to Group A beta-hemolytic streptococci (GAS) is seen as the main indication for antibiotics for sore throat. In primary care settings prescription rates are much higher than the prevalence of GAS. Recommendations in international guidelines differ considerably. A German guideline suggested to consider antibiotics for patients with Centor or McIsaac scores ≥ 3, first choice being penicillin V for 7 days, and recommended analgesics for all. We investigated, if the implementation of this guideline lowers the antibiotic prescription rate, and if a rapid antigen detection strep-test (RADT) in patients with scores ≥ 3 lowers the rate further. METHODS HALS was an open pragmatic parallel group three-arm cluster-randomized controlled trial. Primary care practices in Northern Germany were randomized into three groups: Guideline (GL-group), modified guideline with a RADT for scores ≥ 3 (GL-RADT-group) or usual care (UC-group). All practices were visited and instructed by the study team (outreach visits) and supplied with material according to their group. The practices were asked to recruit 11 consecutive patients ≥ 2 years with an acute sore throat and being at least moderately impaired. A study throat swab for GAS was taken in every patient. The antibiotic prescription rate at the first consultation was the primary outcome. RESULTS From October 2010 to March 2012, 68 general practitioners in 61 practices recruited 520 patients, 516 could be analyzed for the primary endpoint. Antibiotic prescription rates did not differ between groups (p = 0.162) and were about three times higher than the GAS rate: GL-group 97/187 patients (52%; GAS = 16%), GL-RADT-group 74/172 (43%; GAS = 16%) and UC-group 68/157 (43%; GAS = 14%). In the GL-RADT-group 55% of patients had scores ≥ 3 compared to 35% in GL-group (p < 0.001). After adjustment, in the GL-RADT-group the OR was 0.23 for getting an antibiotic compared to the GL-group (p = 0.010), even though 35 of 90 patients with a negative Strep-test got an antibiotic in the GL-RADT-group. The prescription rates per practice covered the full range from 0 to 100% in all groups. CONCLUSION The scores proposed in the implemented guideline seem inappropriate to lower antibiotic prescriptions for sore throat, but better adherence of practitioners to negative RADTs should lead to fewer prescriptions. TRIAL REGISTRATION DRKS00013018, retrospectively registered 28.11.2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannelore Wächtler
- Institute of General Practice, Kiel University, Michaelisstr. 5, 24105, Kiel, Germany
| | - Hanna Kaduszkiewicz
- Institute of General Practice, Kiel University, Michaelisstr. 5, 24105, Kiel, Germany.
| | - Oskar Kuhnert
- Institute of General Practice, Kiel University, Michaelisstr. 5, 24105, Kiel, Germany
| | | | - Sonja Maaß
- Institute of General Practice, Kiel University, Michaelisstr. 5, 24105, Kiel, Germany
| | - Jürgen Hedderich
- Institute of Medical Informatics and Statistics, Kiel University, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Arnold-Heller-Straße 3, Haus V40, 24105, Kiel, Germany
| | - Birgitt Wiese
- IT Services Applications, Science & Laboratory, MHH Information Technology, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover (MHH), Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany
| | - Norbert Donner-Banzhoff
- Department of General Practice / Family Medicine, University of Marburg, Karl-von-Frisch-Str. 4, 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | - Julia Hansmann-Wiest
- Institute of General Practice, Kiel University, Michaelisstr. 5, 24105, Kiel, Germany
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8
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Alhaddad AJ, Aljaroodi S, Alkhasawneh OM, Dibo R, Alturki SA, Aljamaan KA, Wanni NH, Alnimr AM, Aldossary RA, Aljindan RY, Alkharsah KR. Diagnosis of group A streptococcal pharyngitis in the paediatric emergency department using a fluorescence-based RADT: predicted impact on antibiotic prescription. J Med Microbiol 2023; 72. [PMID: 36763078 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.001624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction. Using rapid antigen diagnostic tests (RADTs) in clinical practice has shown excellent specificity but often has diminished sensitivity.Gap Statement. Local data for evaluating the diagnostic performance of a new fluorescence-based RADT and its influence on the antibiotic prescription rate are not available.Aim. To evaluate the accuracy of fluorescent immunoassay (FIA)-RADTs for diagnosing group A streptococcal (GAS) pharyngitis among children and its estimated effect as a point of care test (POCT) on the antibiotic prescription rate at the paediatric emergency department.Methodology. A prospective study was conducted, comprising children 3 to 14 years old presenting with pharyngitis. Throat swab culture and FIA-RADTs were performed on all samples. Conventional PCR was performed on the discordant samples.Results. A total of 246 children were included in this study. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of the FIA-RADT, based on culture results and PCR detection combined, were 95.6, 96.8, 94.6 and 97.4 %, respectively. Antibiotics have been prescribed to 162 (65.9 %) children; however, if FIA-RADTs had been added in the clinical practice as a POCT, only 92 (37.4 %) children would have received antibiotics in total. Additionally, implementation of FIA-RADTs would significantly reduce the antibiotic prescription rate from 48.8 and 60.6 % to 9.5 and 31.9 % among patients with clinical scores of 2 and 3, respectively.Conclusion. The new FIA-RADT is simple, prompt and reliable. It is helpful in clinical settings and may be used to reduce antibiotic overprescription, especially for children who have a low risk for GAS pharyngitis, according to the clinical score.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali J Alhaddad
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU), Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Salma Aljaroodi
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU), Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Omar M Alkhasawneh
- Microbiology Laboratory, Medical Laboratory Department, King Fahd Hospital of the University, Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia
| | - Randa Dibo
- Pediatrics Department, King Fahd Hospital of the University, Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shams A Alturki
- Pediatrics Department, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU), Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid A Aljamaan
- Pediatrics Department, King Fahd Hospital of the University, Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nahid H Wanni
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU), Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amani M Alnimr
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU), Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Reem A Aldossary
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU), Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Reem Y Aljindan
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU), Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khaled R Alkharsah
- Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU), Dammam, Saudi Arabia
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9
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Dewez JE, Pembrey L, Nijman RG, del Torso S, Grossman Z, Hadjipanayis A, Van Esso D, Lim E, Emonts M, Burns J, Gras-LeGuen C, Kohlfuerst D, Dornbusch HJ, Brengel-Pesce K, Mallet F, von Both U, Tsolia M, Eleftheriou I, Zavadska D, de Groot R, van der Flier M, Moll H, Hagedoorn N, Borensztajn D, Oostenbrink R, Kuijpers T, Pokorn M, Vincek K, Martinón-Torres F, Rivero I, Agyeman P, Carrol ED, Paulus S, Cunnington A, Herberg J, Levin M, Mujkić A, Geitmann K, Da Dalt L, Valiulis A, Lapatto R, Syridou G, Altorjai P, Torpiano P, Størdal K, Illy K, Mazur A, Spreitzer MV, Rios J, Wyder C, Romankevych I, Basmaci R, Ibanez-Mico S, Yeung S. Availability and use of rapid diagnostic tests for the management of acute childhood infections in Europe: A cross-sectional survey of paediatricians. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0275336. [PMID: 36538525 PMCID: PMC9767335 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0275336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Point-of-care-tests (POCTs) have been advocated to optimise care in patients with infections but their actual use varies. This study aimed to estimate the variability in the adoption of current POCTs by paediatricians across Europe, and to explore the determinants of variability. METHODS AND FINDINGS A cross-sectional survey was conducted of hospital and primary care paediatricians, recruited through professional networks. Questions focused on the availability and use of currently available POCTs. Data were analysed descriptively and using Median Odds Ratio (MOR) to measure variation between countries. Multilevel regression modelling using changes in the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of models were used to assess the contribution of individual or workplace versus country level factors, to the observed variation. The commonest POCT was urine dipsticks (UD) which were available to >80% of primary care and hospital paediatricians in 68% (13/19) and 79% (23/29) countries, respectively. Availability of all POCTs varied between countries. In primary care, the country (MOR) varied from 1.61 (95%CI: 1.04-2.58) for lactate to 7.28 (95%CI: 3.04-24.35) for UD. In hospitals, the country MOR varied from 1.37 (95%CI:1.04-1.80) for lactate to 11.93 (95%CI:3.35-72.23) for UD. Most paediatricians in primary care (69%, 795/1154) and hospital (81%, 962/1188) would use a diagnostic test in the case scenario of an infant with undifferentiated fever. Multilevel regression modelling showed that the country of work was more important in predicting both the availability and use of POCTs than individual or workplace characteristics. CONCLUSION There is substantial variability in the adoption of POCTs for the management of acute infections in children across Europe. To inform future implementation of both existing and innovative tests, further research is needed to understand what drives the variation between countries, the needs of frontline clinicians, and the role of diagnostic tests in the management of acute childhood infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Emmanuel Dewez
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
| | - Lucy Pembrey
- Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ruud G. Nijman
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Section of Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Research in European Paediatric Emergency Medicine (REPEM)
| | - Stefano del Torso
- ChildCare WorldWide, Padova, Italy
- European Academy of Paediatrics Research in Ambulatory Settings network (EAPRASnet)
| | - Zachi Grossman
- European Academy of Paediatrics Research in Ambulatory Settings network (EAPRASnet)
- Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel, Israel
- Pediatric Clinic, Maccabi Healthcare Services, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Adamos Hadjipanayis
- European Academy of Paediatrics Research in Ambulatory Settings network (EAPRASnet)
- Paediatric Department, Larnaca General Hospital, Larnaca, Cyprus
- Medical School, European University Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Diego Van Esso
- European Academy of Paediatrics Research in Ambulatory Settings network (EAPRASnet)
- Primary Care Paediatrician, Health Care Centre Pere Grau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Emma Lim
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- Great North Children’s Hospital, Paediatric Immunology, Infectious Diseases & Allergy, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Marieke Emonts
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- Great North Children’s Hospital, Paediatric Immunology, Infectious Diseases & Allergy, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - James Burns
- Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Christèle Gras-LeGuen
- Centre d’Investigation Clinique CIC1413, INSERM-Nantes University Hospital, Nantes, France
| | - Daniela Kohlfuerst
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Hans Jürgen Dornbusch
- European Academy of Paediatrics Research in Ambulatory Settings network (EAPRASnet)
- Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Karen Brengel-Pesce
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- BioMérieux, Lyon, France
| | - Francois Mallet
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- BioMérieux, Lyon, France
| | - Ulrich von Both
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians University (LMU), Munich, Germany
| | - Maria Tsolia
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- P. and A. Kyriakou Children’s Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Irini Eleftheriou
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- P. and A. Kyriakou Children’s Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Dace Zavadska
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- Children Clinical University Hospital, Riga, Latvia
| | - Ronald de Groot
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Michiel van der Flier
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Henriëtte Moll
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- Research in European Paediatric Emergency Medicine (REPEM)
- Department of General Paediatrics, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children’s Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Nienke Hagedoorn
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- Department of General Paediatrics, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children’s Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Dorine Borensztajn
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- Department of General Paediatrics, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children’s Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Rianne Oostenbrink
- Research in European Paediatric Emergency Medicine (REPEM)
- Department of General Paediatrics, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children’s Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Taco Kuijpers
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marko Pokorn
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Katarina Vincek
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Federico Martinón-Torres
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Irene Rivero
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Philipp Agyeman
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Enitan D. Carrol
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Stéphane Paulus
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- Department of Paediatrics, Oxford Vaccine Group, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Aubrey Cunnington
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Section of Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jethro Herberg
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Section of Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Levin
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Section of Paediatric Infectious Diseases, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Aida Mujkić
- European Academy of Paediatrics Research in Ambulatory Settings network (EAPRASnet)
- University of Zagreb, School of Medicine, Andrija Štampar School of Public Health, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Karin Geitmann
- European Academy of Paediatrics Research in Ambulatory Settings network (EAPRASnet)
- Primary Care Paediatrician, BVKJ, Hagen, Germany
| | - Liviana Da Dalt
- Research in European Paediatric Emergency Medicine (REPEM)
- Department of Woman’s and Child’s Health Padova University Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - Arūnas Valiulis
- European Academy of Paediatrics Research in Ambulatory Settings network (EAPRASnet)
- Vilnius University Medical Faculty, Institute of Clinical Medicine, Clinic of Children’s Diseases, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Risto Lapatto
- European Academy of Paediatrics Research in Ambulatory Settings network (EAPRASnet)
- Department of Paediatrics, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Garyfallia Syridou
- European Academy of Paediatrics Research in Ambulatory Settings network (EAPRASnet)
- Attiko University Hospital, Chaidari, Greece
| | - Péter Altorjai
- European Academy of Paediatrics Research in Ambulatory Settings network (EAPRASnet)
- Association of Hungarian Primary Care Paediatricians, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Paul Torpiano
- European Academy of Paediatrics Research in Ambulatory Settings network (EAPRASnet)
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Health at Mater Dei Hospital, Valletta, Malta
| | - Ketil Størdal
- European Academy of Paediatrics Research in Ambulatory Settings network (EAPRASnet)
- Paediatric Research Institute, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Károly Illy
- European Academy of Paediatrics Research in Ambulatory Settings network (EAPRASnet)
- Dutch Society of Paediatrics NVK, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Artur Mazur
- European Academy of Paediatrics Research in Ambulatory Settings network (EAPRASnet)
- Medical College of Rzeszow University, Rzeszów, Poland
| | - Mateja Vintar Spreitzer
- European Academy of Paediatrics Research in Ambulatory Settings network (EAPRASnet)
- Zdravstveni dom Domžale, Slovenian Paediatric Society, Burnaby, Slovenia
| | - Joana Rios
- European Academy of Paediatrics Research in Ambulatory Settings network (EAPRASnet)
- Hospital Beatriz Ângelo, Loures, Portugal
| | - Corinne Wyder
- European Academy of Paediatrics Research in Ambulatory Settings network (EAPRASnet)
- Kinderärzte KurWerk, Burgdorf, Switzerland
| | - Ivanna Romankevych
- European Academy of Paediatrics Research in Ambulatory Settings network (EAPRASnet)
- Ukrainian Academy of Pediatric Specialties, Ukraine
| | - Romain Basmaci
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- Service de Pédiatrie-Urgences, AP-HP, Hôpital Louis-Mourier, Colombes, France
| | | | - Shunmay Yeung
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Personalised Risk Assessment in Febrile Illness to Optimise Real-Life Management Across the European Union (PERFORM)
- Department of Paediatrics, St Mary’s Imperial College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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10
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Kennis M, Tagawa A, Kung VM, Montalbano G, Narvaez I, Franco-Paredes C, Vargas Barahona L, Madinger N, Shapiro L, Chastain DB, Henao-Martínez AF. Seasonal variations and risk factors of Streptococcus pyogenes infection: a multicenter research network study. Ther Adv Infect Dis 2022; 9:20499361221132101. [PMID: 36277299 PMCID: PMC9585558 DOI: 10.1177/20499361221132101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Streptococcus pyogenes, or Group A Streptococcus (GAS), causes acute pharyngitis and necrotizing fasciitis. Seasonal variations in GAS infections are not robustly characterized. We assessed seasonal variations and risk factors of GAS pharyngitis and ICD-10-diagnosed necrotizing fasciitis. Methods: From the period 2010–2019, we conducted a case–control study using laboratory-confirmed cases of GAS pharyngitis and a descriptive observational study of necrotizing fasciitis using ICD-10 codes. Data were collected from TriNetX, a federated research network. We extracted seasonal (quarterly) incidence rates. We used an autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model to assess seasonal variations. Demographic characteristics and 1-month outcomes were compared among adults with or without GAS pharyngitis. Results: We identified 224,471 adults with GAS pharyngitis (test-positive) and 546,142 adults without it (test-negative). GAS pharyngitis adults were younger (25.3 versus 30.2 years of age, p < 0.0001), more likely to be Hispanic individuals (10% versus 8%, p < 0.0001) and slightly more likely to be Black or African American individuals (14% versus 13%, p < 0.0001). Propensity score matching found that adults with test-positive cases of GAS pharyngitis had a higher risk of acute rheumatic fever while having no significant differences in risk of intensive care unit admission and mortality compared with test-negative cases. GAS pharyngitis average incidence peaked in the winter while dipping in the summer (0.32 versus 0.18 and 4.07 versus 1.78 per 1000 adults and pediatric patients, respectively). Necrotizing fasciitis diagnoses were highest during summer (0.032 per 1000 adults). There was a significant ARIMA seasonal variation in the time series analysis for adult and pediatric GAS pharyngitis (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.014, respectively). Necrotizing fasciitis diagnosis was not associated with seasonal variation (p = 0.861). Conclusion: Peaks in GAS pharyngitis occur in the winter months. ICD code–based necrotizing fasciitis did not show a quarterly seasonal variation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Kennis
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Alex Tagawa
- Center for Gait and Movement Analysis (CGMA), Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Vanessa M. Kung
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Gabrielle Montalbano
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Isabella Narvaez
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | | | - Lilian Vargas Barahona
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Nancy Madinger
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Leland Shapiro
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA,Division of Infectious Diseases, Rocky Mountain Regional Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Daniel B. Chastain
- Department of Clinical and Administrative Pharmacy, University of Georgia College of Pharmacy, Albany, GA, USA
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11
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Lown M, Miles EA, Fisk HL, Smith KA, Muller I, Maund E, Rogers K, Becque T, Hayward G, Moore M, Little P, Glogowska M, Hay AD, Stuart B, Mantzourani E, Butler C, Bostock J, Davies F, Dickerson I, Thompson N, Francis N. Self-sampling to identify pathogens and inflammatory markers in patients with acute sore throat: Feasibility study. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1016181. [PMID: 36275691 PMCID: PMC9582425 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1016181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Sore throat is a common reason for overuse of antibiotics. The value of inflammatory or biomarkers in throat swab or saliva samples in predicting benefit from antibiotics is unknown. Methods We used the ‘person-based approach’ to develop an online tool to support self-swabbing and recruited adults and children with sore throats through participating general practices and social media. Participants took bacterial and viral swabs and a saliva sponge swab and passive drool sample. Bacterial swabs were cultured for streptococcus (Group A, B, C, F and G). The viral swab and saliva samples were tested using a routine respiratory panel PCR and Covid-19 PCR testing. We used remaining viral swab and saliva sample volume for biomarker analysis using a panel of 13 biomarkers. Results We recruited 11 asymptomatic participants and 45 symptomatic participants. From 45 symptomatic participants, bacterial throat swab, viral throat swab, saliva sponge and saliva drool samples were returned by 41/45 (91.1%), 43/45 (95.6%), 43/45 (95.6%) and 43/45 (95.6%) participants respectively. Three saliva sponge and 6 saliva drool samples were of insufficient quantity. Two adult participants had positive bacterial swabs. Six participants had a virus detected from at least one sample (swab or saliva). All of the biomarkers assessed were detectable from all samples where there was sufficient volume for testing. For most biomarkers we found higher concentrations in the saliva samples. Due to low numbers, we were not able to compare biomarker concentrations in those who did and did not have a bacterial pathogen detected. We found no evidence of a difference between biomarker concentrations between the symptomatic and asymptomatic participants but the distributions were wide. Conclusions We have demonstrated that it is feasible for patients with sore throat to self-swab and provide saliva samples for pathogen and biomarker analysis. Typical bacterial and viral pathogens were detected but at low prevalence rates. Further work is needed to determine if measuring biomarkers using oropharyngeal samples can help to differentiate between viral and bacterial pathogens in patients classified as medium or high risk using clinical scores, in order to better guide antibiotic prescribing and reduce inappropriate prescriptions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Lown
- Primary Care Research Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Mark Lown,
| | - Elizabeth A. Miles
- School of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Helena L. Fisk
- School of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Kirsten A. Smith
- Primary Care Research Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Ingrid Muller
- Primary Care Research Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Emma Maund
- Primary Care Research Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Kirsty Rogers
- Primary Care Research Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Taeko Becque
- Primary Care Research Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Gail Hayward
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Moore
- Primary Care Research Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Little
- Primary Care Research Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Margaret Glogowska
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Alastair D. Hay
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) School for Primary Care Research, Bristol Medical School: Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Beth Stuart
- Primary Care Research Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Efi Mantzourani
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Chris Butler
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Jennifer Bostock
- Southampton Primary Care Research Centre, Patient and Public Involvement Representative, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Firoza Davies
- Southampton Primary Care Research Centre, Patient and Public Involvement Representative, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Ian Dickerson
- Southampton Primary Care Research Centre, Patient and Public Involvement Representative, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Natalie Thompson
- Primary Care Research Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Nick Francis
- Primary Care Research Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
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12
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van der Pol S, Jansen DEMC, van der Velden AW, Butler CC, Verheij TJM, Friedrich AW, Postma MJ, van Asselt ADI. The Opportunity of Point-of-Care Diagnostics in General Practice: Modelling the Effects on Antimicrobial Resistance. PHARMACOECONOMICS 2022; 40:823-833. [PMID: 35764913 PMCID: PMC9243781 DOI: 10.1007/s40273-022-01165-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a public health threat associated with antibiotic consumption. Community-acquired acute respiratory tract infections (CA-ARTIs) are a major driver of antibiotic consumption in primary care. We aimed to quantify the investments required for a large-scale rollout of point-of care (POC) diagnostic testing in Dutch primary care, and the impact on AMR due to reduced use of antibiotics. METHODS We developed an individual-based model that simulates consultations for CA-ARTI at GP practices in the Netherlands and compared a scenario where GPs test all CA-ARTI patients with a hypothetical diagnostic strategy to continuing the current standard-of-care for the years 2020-2030. We estimated differences in costs and future AMR rates caused by testing all patients consulting for CA-ARTI with a hypothetical diagnostic strategy, compared to the current standard-of-care in GP practices. RESULTS Compared to the current standard-of-care, the diagnostic algorithm increases the total costs of GP consultations for CA-ARTI by 9% and 19%, when priced at €5 and €10, respectively. The forecast increase in Streptococcus pneumoniae resistance against penicillins can be partly restrained by the hypothetical diagnostic strategy from 3.8 to 3.5% in 2030, albeit with considerable uncertainty. CONCLUSIONS Our results show that implementing a hypothetical diagnostic strategy for all CA-ARTI patients in primary care raises the costs of consultations, while lowering antibiotic consumption and AMR. Novel health-economic methods to assess and communicate the potential benefits related to AMR may be required for interventions with limited gains for individual patients, but considerable potential related to antibiotic consumption and AMR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon van der Pol
- Department of Health Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
- Health-Ecore, Zeist, The Netherlands.
| | - Danielle E M C Jansen
- Department of General Practice and Elderly Care Medicine, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Sociology, Interuniversity Center for Social Science Theory and Methodology (ICS), University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Alike W van der Velden
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Christopher C Butler
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Medicine, Cardiff Sciences, University, Cardiff of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Theo J M Verheij
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Alex W Friedrich
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Institute of European Prevention Networks in Infection Control, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Maarten J Postma
- Department of Health Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Health-Ecore, Zeist, The Netherlands
- Department of Economics, Econometrics and Finance, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Antoinette D I van Asselt
- Department of Health Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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13
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Point of care testing, antibiotic prescribing and prescribing confidence for respiratory tract infections in primary care: Prospective audit in 18 European countries. BJGP Open 2021; 6:BJGPO.2021.0212. [PMID: 34920989 PMCID: PMC9447323 DOI: 10.3399/bjgpo.2021.0212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Between-country differences have been described in antibiotic prescribing for RTI in primary care, but not yet for diagnostic testing procedures and prescribing confidence. AIM To describe between-country differences in RTI management, particularly diagnostic testing and antibiotic prescribing, and investigate which factors relate to antibiotic prescribing and GPs' prescribing confidence. DESIGN & SETTING Prospective audit in 18 European countries. METHOD GPs registered patient-, clinical- and management characteristics, and confidence in their antibiotic prescribing decision for patients presenting with sore throat and/or lower RTI (n=4,982). Factors related to antibiotic prescribing and confidence were analysed using multi-level logistic regression. RESULTS Antibiotic prescribing proportions varied considerably:<20% in four countries, and >40% in six countries. There was also considerable variation in POC testing (0% in Croatia, Moldova, Romania, and >65% in Denmark, Norway, mainly CRP and Strep A), and in lab/hospital-based testing (<3% in Hungary, Netherlands, Spain, and >30% in Croatia, Georgia, Greece, Moldova, mainly chest X-ray and white blood cell counting). Antibiotic prescribing was related to illness severity, comorbidity, age, fever and 'country', but not to having performed a POC test. In nearly 90% of consultations, GPs were confident in their antibiotic prescribing decision. CONCLUSION Despite high confidence in decisions about antibiotic prescribing, there is considerable variation in the primary care of RTI in European countries, with GPs prescribing antibiotics overall more often than is considered appropriate. POC testing may enhance the quality of antibiotic prescribing decisions if it can safely reverse decisions confidently made on clinical grounds alone to prescribe antibiotics.
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Taylor A, Morpeth S, Webb R, Taylor S. The Utility of Rapid Group A Streptococcus Molecular Testing Compared with Throat Culture for the Diagnosis of Group A Streptococcal Pharyngitis in a High-Incidence Rheumatic Fever Population. J Clin Microbiol 2021; 59:e0097821. [PMID: 34550808 PMCID: PMC8601248 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.00978-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Group A streptococcus (GAS) causes significant morbidity and mortality in New Zealand and is responsible for invasive disease and immune sequelae, including acute rheumatic fever (ARF). Early treatment of GAS pharyngitis reduces the risk of ARF. In settings with a high burden of GAS disease, a rapid GAS pharyngitis diagnostic test with a strong negative predictive value is needed to enable prompt and accurate treatment. This prospective study compares the Xpert Xpress Strep A molecular test (Cepheid) to throat culture and a second molecular method, the BioGX group A streptococcus-open system reagent (OSR) for BD Max for the diagnosis of GAS pharyngitis. Throat swabs were collected from the emergency department and wards of Middlemore Hospital, New Zealand. The BioGX group A streptococcus OSR for BD Max contributes to the composite gold standard of throat culture or both molecular methods positive. Basic demographic, clinical, and laboratory data were collected. Two hundred five out of two hundred fourteen swabs were suitable for analysis. Of those, 28/205 (13.7%) were GAS culture positive, 45/205 (22%) Xpert Xpress Strep A positive, and 38/205 (18.5%) BioGX positive. Compared to culture, the sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of the Xpert Xpress Strep A molecular test were 100%, 90.4%, 62.2%, and 100%, respectively. Compared to the composite gold standard, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) were 100%, 95.8%, 84.4%, and 100%, respectively. Seventeen samples were Xpert Xpress positive but culture negative; 6 of these 17 swabs represent true positives with evidence of recent GAS infection. Ten samples were culture negative but both Xpert Xpress and BioGX positive. The Xpert Xpress Strep A molecular test is highly sensitive with a strong negative predictive value and rapid turnaround time. It can be safely introduced as a first-line test for throat swabs in a high-incidence ARF population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Taylor
- Department of Microbiology, Middlemore Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Susan Morpeth
- Department of Microbiology, Middlemore Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Rachel Webb
- Kidz First Hospital, Counties Manukau, Auckland, New Zealand
- Starship Children’s Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
- University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Susan Taylor
- Department of Microbiology, Middlemore Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
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Rodrigues AT, Nunes JCF, Estrela M, Figueiras A, Roque F, Herdeiro MT. Comparing Hospital and Primary Care Physicians' Attitudes and Knowledge Regarding Antibiotic Prescribing: A Survey within the Centre Region of Portugal. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:antibiotics10060629. [PMID: 34070337 PMCID: PMC8229910 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10060629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antibiotic resistance is a worldwide public health problem, leading to longer hospital stays, raising medical costs and mortality levels. As physicians' attitudes are key factors to antibiotic prescribing, this study sought to explore their differences between primary care and hospital settings. METHODS A survey was conducted between September 2011 and February 2012 in the center region of Portugal in the form of a questionnaire to compare hospital (n = 154) and primary care (n = 421) physicians' attitudes and knowledge regarding antibiotic prescribing. RESULTS More than 70% of the attitudes were statistically different (p < 0.05) between hospital physicians (HPs) and primary care physicians (PCPs). When compared to PCPs, HPs showed higher agreement with antibiotic resistances being a public health problem and ascribed more importance to microbiological tests and to the influence of prescription on the development of resistances. On the other hand, PCPs tended to agree more regarding the negative impact of self-medication with antibiotics dispensed without medical prescription and the need for rapid diagnostic tests. Seven out of nine sources of knowledge's usefulness were statistically different between both settings, with HPs considering most of the knowledge sources to be more useful than PCPs. CONCLUSIONS Besides the efforts made to improve both antibiotic prescribing and use, there are differences in the opinions between physicians working in different settings that might impact the quality of antibiotic prescribing. In the future, these differences must be considered to develop more appropriate interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- António Teixeira Rodrigues
- Department of Medical Sciences, iBiMED—Institute of Biomedicine, University of Aveiro, 3800 Aveiro, Portugal; (A.T.R.); (M.E.); (M.T.H.)
- Centre for Health Evaluation and Research (CEFAR), National Association of Pharmacies, 1249 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - João C. F. Nunes
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO—Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, 3800 Aveiro, Portugal;
| | - Marta Estrela
- Department of Medical Sciences, iBiMED—Institute of Biomedicine, University of Aveiro, 3800 Aveiro, Portugal; (A.T.R.); (M.E.); (M.T.H.)
| | - Adolfo Figueiras
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, 15702 Santiago de Compostela, Spain;
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBER Epidemiology and Public Health—CIBERESP), 28001 Madrid, Spain
- Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15706 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Fátima Roque
- Research Unit for Inland Development, Polytechnic of Guarda (IPG-UDI), 6300 Guarda, Portugal
- Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior (CICS-UBI), 6200 Covilhã, Portugal
- Correspondence:
| | - Maria Teresa Herdeiro
- Department of Medical Sciences, iBiMED—Institute of Biomedicine, University of Aveiro, 3800 Aveiro, Portugal; (A.T.R.); (M.E.); (M.T.H.)
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Ślęzak K, Dembiński Ł, Konefał A, Dąbrowski M, Mazur A, Peregud-Pogorzelska M, Wawrykow P, Konefał D, Peregud-Pogorzelski J. Impact of Selected Behavioral and Environmental Factors on the Antibiotic Therapy in Polish Children With Upper Respiratory Tract Infections. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:784265. [PMID: 34926354 PMCID: PMC8678461 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.784265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Antibiotic therapy must be carried out consistently and according to the guidelines. Viruses are the dominant cause of upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) in children, as has been shown in many previous studies. Unnecessary antibiotic therapy should be avoided so that it does not affect patients' health and lead to the development of resistant bacterial strains. Here we report a national survey conducted in a group of 4,389 children to assess the impact of selected behavioral and environmental factors on antibiotic therapy in patients with URTIs. We found that selected environmental factors influenced the type of treatment. The place of residence, having siblings, an absence of vaccinations, the presence of allergies, and attendance at educational institutions were conducive to antibiotic therapy. These factors also influenced the frequency of hospitalization of children and their absence from nurseries, kindergartens, and schools, as well as the absence of their guardians from work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Ślęzak
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Oncology and Immunology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Łukasz Dembiński
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Mikołaj Dąbrowski
- Adult Spine Orthopaedics Department, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Artur Mazur
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Medical College of Rzeszow University, Rzeszów, Poland
| | | | - Paweł Wawrykow
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Oncology and Immunology, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
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Essack S, Bell J, Burgoyne D, Tongrod W, Duerden M, Sessa A, Altiner A, Shephard A. Point-of-Care Testing for Pharyngitis in the Pharmacy. Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:E743. [PMID: 33126412 PMCID: PMC7693205 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9110743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Pharyngitis (also known as sore throat) is a common, predominately viral, self-limiting condition which can be symptomatically managed without antibiotic treatment. Inappropriate antibiotic use for pharyngitis contributes to the development and spread of antibiotic resistance. However, a small proportion of sore throats caused by group A streptococcal (GAS) infection may benefit from the provision of antibiotics. Establishing the cause of infection is therefore an important step in effective antibiotic stewardship. Point-of-care (POC) tests, where results are available within minutes, can distinguish between viral and GAS pharyngitis and can therefore guide treatment in primary healthcare settings such as community pharmacies, which are often the first point of contact with the healthcare system. In this opinion article, the evidence for the use of POC testing in the community pharmacy has been discussed. Evidence suggests that pharmacy POC testing can promote appropriate antibiotic use and reduce the need for general practitioner consultations. Challenges to implementation include cost, training and 'who prescribes', with country and regional differences presenting a particular issue. Despite these challenges, POC testing for pharyngitis has become widely available in pharmacies in some countries and may represent a strategy to contain antibiotic resistance and contribute to antimicrobial stewardship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabiha Essack
- Antimicrobial Research Unit, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban 4041, South Africa
| | - John Bell
- Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia;
| | - Douglas Burgoyne
- College of Pharmacy, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA;
| | - Wirat Tongrod
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Huachiew Chalermprakiet University, Samut Prakan 10540, Thailand;
| | - Martin Duerden
- School of Medicine, Centre for Medical Education, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK;
| | - Aurelio Sessa
- Italian College of General Practitioners and Primary Care (SIMG, Società Italiana di Medicina Generale delle Cure Primarie), 50142 Florence, Italy;
| | - Attila Altiner
- Institute of General Practice, Rostock University Medical Center, 18055 Rostock, Germany;
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Mustafa Z, Ghaffari M. Diagnostic Methods, Clinical Guidelines, and Antibiotic Treatment for Group A Streptococcal Pharyngitis: A Narrative Review. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:563627. [PMID: 33178623 PMCID: PMC7593338 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.563627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The most common bacterial cause of pharyngitis is infection by Group A β-hemolytic streptococcus (GABHS), commonly known as strep throat. 5-15% of adults and 15-35% of children in the United States with pharyngitis have a GABHS infection. The symptoms of GABHS overlap with non-GABHS and viral causes of acute pharyngitis, complicating the problem of diagnosis. A careful physical examination and patient history is the starting point for diagnosing GABHS. After a physical examination and patient history is completed, five types of diagnostic methods can be used to ascertain the presence of a GABHS infection: clinical scoring systems, rapid antigen detection tests, throat culture, nucleic acid amplification tests, and machine learning and artificial intelligence. Clinical guidelines developed by professional associations can help medical professionals choose among available techniques to diagnose strep throat. However, guidelines for diagnosing GABHS created by the American and European professional associations vary significantly, and there is substantial evidence that most physicians do not follow any published guidelines. Treatment for GABHS using analgesics, antipyretics, and antibiotics seeks to provide symptom relief, shorten the duration of illness, prevent nonsuppurative and suppurative complications, and decrease the risk of contagion, while minimizing the unnecessary use of antibiotics. There is broad agreement that antibiotics with narrow spectrums of activity are appropriate for treating strep throat. But whether and when patients should be treated with antibiotics for GABHS remains a controversial question. There is no clearly superior management strategy for strep throat, as significant controversy exists regarding the best methods to diagnose GABHS and under what conditions antibiotics should be prescribed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahid Mustafa
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Masoumeh Ghaffari
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
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19
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Cohen JF, Pauchard JY, Hjelm N, Cohen R, Chalumeau M. Efficacy and safety of rapid tests to guide antibiotic prescriptions for sore throat. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2020; 6:CD012431. [PMID: 32497279 PMCID: PMC7271976 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd012431.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sore throat is a common condition caused by viruses or bacteria, and is a leading cause of antibiotic prescription in primary care. The most common bacterial species is group A streptococcus ('strep throat'). Between 50% to 70% of pharyngitis cases are treated with antibiotics, despite the majority of cases being viral in origin. One strategy to reduce antibiotics is to use rapid tests for group A streptococcus to guide antibiotic prescriptions. Rapid tests can be used alone or in combination with a clinical scoring system. OBJECTIVES To assess the efficacy and safety of strategies based on rapid tests to guide antibiotic prescriptions for sore throat in primary care settings. SEARCH METHODS We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, and LILACS, as well as the trial registries ClinicalTrials.gov and the WHO ICTRP on 5 June 2019. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing rapid tests with management based on clinical grounds to guide the prescription of antibiotics for people with a sore throat in ambulatory care settings. We included trials that randomised individuals, as well as cluster-RCTs in which individual practitioners (or practices) or emergency departments were randomised. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently extracted data on the primary outcomes (number of participants provided with an antibiotic prescription; number of participants with an antibiotic dispensed) and secondary outcomes (duration of sore throat symptoms; duration of other symptoms; quality of life measures; number of participants with a complication attributed to the index infection; number of participants in need of re-consultation by the end of follow-up; number of participants in need of hospital admission by the end of follow-up; number of satisfied participants; number of participants with an adverse event attributed to the rapid test). We assessed the risk of bias of all included trials and used GRADE to assess the certainty of the evidence. We performed meta-analyses and sensitivity analyses when feasible. MAIN RESULTS We included five trials (2891 children and adult participants in total; 2545 participants after adjusting for clustering). Management in the intervention group was as follows: in three trials rapid tests were used in combination with a clinical scoring system; in one trial, some physicians were asked to use rapid tests alone, while others were asked to use rapid tests in combination with a clinical scoring system; in one trial, rapid tests were used alone. Based on data from five trials (2545 participants), a large reduction in prescribed antibiotics was found in the rapid test group (481/1197) versus management based on clinical grounds (865/1348), for a summary risk difference (RD) of -25%, 95% confidence interval (CI) -31% to -18%; I2 = 62%; moderate-certainty evidence. Estimates of effect on antibiotic prescription rates were stable in various sensitivity analyses. Based on data from two trials (900 people) originating from the same overarching study, the evidence suggests that rapid tests may not reduce dispensed antibiotic treatments: rapid test group (156/445) versus management based on clinical grounds (197/455); summary RD -7%, 95% CI -17% to 2%; I2 = 53%; low-certainty evidence. Four trials (2075 participants) reported data on the number of participants with a complication attributed to the index infection; the summary odds ratio (OR) was 0.85, 95% CI 0.03 to 26.65; P = 0.93; I2 = 62%; very low-certainty evidence, which means that people in the rapid testing group were less likely to develop complications of the index infection, but the evidence is very uncertain. Two trials (1161 participants) reported on the number of participants in need of re-consultation by the end of follow-up; the summary OR was 1.12, 95% CI 0.57 to 2.21; P = 0.74; I2 = 59%; low-certainty evidence, which means that participants in the rapid testing group were more likely to be in need of re-consultation by the end of the study follow-up, but the evidence is uncertain. Lack of data impeded assessment of other secondary outcomes (including safety outcomes) and of sources of heterogeneity. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Rapid testing to guide antibiotic treatment for sore throat in primary care probably reduces antibiotic prescription rates by 25% (absolute risk difference), but may have little or no impact on antibiotic dispensing. More studies are needed to assess the efficacy and safety of rapid test-guided antibiotic prescribing, notably to evaluate patient-centred outcomes and variability across subgroups (e.g. adults versus children).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jérémie F Cohen
- Department of General Pediatrics and Pediatric Infectious Diseases, AP-HP, Hôpital Necker, Paris, France
- Université de Paris, CRESS, INSERM, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Yves Pauchard
- Département Médico-Chirurgical de Pédiatrie, Hôpital de l'Enfance de Lausanne, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Nils Hjelm
- Obstetrical, Perinatal and Pediatric Epidemiology Research Team (EPOPé), Centre de Recherche Épidémiologie et Statistique Sorbonne Paris Cité (CRESS), Inserm UMR1153, Paris Descartes University, Paris, France
| | - Robert Cohen
- Association Clinique et Thérapeutique Infantile du Val-de-Marne (ACTIV), Saint-Maur-des-Fossés, France
| | - Martin Chalumeau
- Department of General Pediatrics and Pediatric Infectious Diseases, AP-HP, Hôpital Necker, Paris, France
- Université de Paris, CRESS, INSERM, Paris, France
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