Assessing the evidence for antibiotic management of laboratory-confirmed <i>Streptococcus A</i> skin infections to prevent acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease: a systematic review.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) are potential sequelae of untreated group A streptococcal (Strep A) infections. Guidelines focus on treating Strep A pharyngitis but seldom on skin infections. This systematic review explored whether directed antibiotic therapy for superficial Strep A skin infections prevents ARF/RHD.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and clinical trial registries for published and ongoing trials measuring the eradication of Strep A and clinical resolution of polymicrobial infections with antibiotics through December 13, 2024. We calculated risk ratios and absolute risk differences, using the grading of recommendations, assessment, development, and evaluation (GRADE) to as

SUBMITTER: Leong TD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12019448 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature