Comparison of the Frequency of Group A Beta-Hemolytic <i>Streptococcus</i> in the Pharynx of Children with Pharyngitis and Those Without Pharyngitis: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: The most frequent bacterial agent associated with purulent and non-purulent complications of pharyngitis is group A beta-hemolytic Streptococcus (GAS). Objectives: This study aimed to compare the frequency of GAS in children with pharyngitis and those without pharyngitis, emphasizing the problem of antibiotic overuse and bacterial resistance. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from summer to winter 2014 on children aged 2 - 15 years visiting the Pediatric Emergency Department with sore throat complaints. Bacterial pharyngitis was clinically diagnosed, and throat swabs were collected before antibiotic use. Healthy children without infection symptoms were selected as controls. All specimens were cultured on blood agar, and results were analyzed using chi-square tests. Results: Among 100 patients with pharyngitis and 100 healthy controls, GAS was isolated from 18% and 8%, respectively (P = 0.03). The frequency of anterior cervical adenopathy and fever was significantly higher in culture-positive patients. Conclusions: The prevalence of GAS pharyngitis in children was 18%. Overdiagnosis and irrational antibiotic prescriptions remain common. Strengthening diagnostic accuracy and antibiotic stewardship is essential to prevent resistance and complications.