Comparison Between Two Methods of Throat Swabbing

Comparison Between Two Methods of Throat Swabbing

Throat swabbing is an important instrument in the diagnosis of strep pharyngitis and sometimes the main argument for antibiotic treatment. There is no firm knowledge about an appropriate method of the swabbing for receiving maximal sensitivity. We hypothesize that accurate swabbing from the pus will increase the sensitivity of the swabbing as compared to free swabbing. In order to check this hypothesis we will compare two swabs from the same throat. One that will be taken by a physician specifically from the pass and the second will be taken by a nurse as she used to do it. An increase of 10% of positive results will be accepted as a significant advantage.

Inclusion Criteria:

• patients with sore throat, classified 2-3 according to Cantor's criteria

Exclusion Criteria:

• patients on antibiotic treatment
• suspected carriers of streptococcus