Rapid Immunological Assays for Group a Streptococcus Pyogenes Antigen Have

Multiple Choice

Rapid immunological assays for Group A Streptococcus pyogenes antigen have a sensitivity of about 60% to 80% and a specificity of about 90% to 95% in pharyngitis infections. Given these data, which strategy below is optimal?

A) Do preliminary screening with a throat culture and follow up negative results with a rapid antigen test.
B) Do preliminary screening with a rapid antigen test and follow up negative results with a throat culture.
C) Do preliminary screening with a rapid antigen test and follow up positive results with a throat culture.
D) Do preliminary screening with a throat culture and follow up positive results with a rapid antigen test.
E) Simultaneously test all specimens with both rapid antigen screening and culture.