Implementation of a Highly Accurate Rapid Point-of-Care Test for Group a Streptococcus Detection at a Large Pediatric Emergency Department in South London.

Abstract

Rapid group A Streptococcus point-of-care testing is not currently used in the United Kingdom in the management of acute tonsillitis. This prospective, observational study describes a strong association between a molecular-based point-of-care testing result and outpatient antibiotic prescribing (odds ratio = 48; P < 0.001) in 339 children seen at our center. It highlights challenges in implementing new rapid diagnostics.