The beta-hemolytic streptococcal pharyngeal carriers in school children
Danchaivijitr, S.; Leelarasmee, A.; Sankaburanuraksa, S.; Trakulsomboon, S.; Prutsachatvuthi, S.; Shokechareonratana, S.
Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand 71(10): 561-565
1988
ISSN/ISBN: 0125-2208 PMID: 3249163 Document Number: 324422
Eight hundred and forty-three school children age 5-15 years in Nakhon Pathom province were studied for the prevalence of pharyngeal carriers of beta-hemolytic streptococci. The organisms were found in 146 children (17.32%). The commonest was group G, followed by groups A and C respectively. Group A was found in 36 children (4.27%). Children who had enlarged tonsils had higher carrier rates of group A and other beta-hemolytic streptococci. The low prevalence rate of pharyngeal carriers of group A beta-hemolytic streptococci contradicts the high incidence of rheumatic heart disease in this country. Other factors may be involved in the pathogenesis of rheumatic fever.