Understanding Group A Streptococcus in Children

Gene Expression in Isolates of Group A Streptococci Recovered From Patients Who Are Carriers

University of Wisconsin, Madison · NCT01558804

This study is trying to understand the differences in Group A strep bacteria between kids who are sick and those who carry the bacteria without symptoms, to help improve treatment options.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment180 (estimated)
Ages5 Years to 15 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Wisconsin, Madison (other)
Locations1 site (Madison, Wisconsin)
Trial IDNCT01558804 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This research aims to investigate the differences in Group A streptococcus (GAS) between children who are acutely infected and those who are carriers. The study will collect samples from children aged 5 to 15 years with acute pharyngitis and a positive test for GAS, comparing their transcriptional profiles and genetic sequences. By analyzing these samples, the researchers hope to uncover unique characteristics of GAS during acute infection versus carrier states, which could inform treatment approaches. The study will enroll approximately 180 participants to achieve its objectives.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are children aged 5 to 15 years who have a positive rapid antigen detection test for Group A streptococcus.

Not a fit: Patients who are unable to take beta lactam antibiotics or have other concurrent bacterial infections may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to better understanding and management of streptococcal infections in children, potentially reducing unnecessary antibiotic use.

How similar studies have performed: While this study explores a specific aspect of GAS infection, similar studies have shown promise in understanding bacterial behavior and treatment outcomes.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Children ages 5-15 years
* Positive rapid antigen detection test for group A streptococcus
* Parent or legal guardian present and able to provide consent
* Provider prescribes treatment with a beta lactam antibiotic
* English speaking

Exclusion Criteria:

* Unable to take beta lactam antibiotics
* Other concurrent bacterial infection, i.e., pneumonia

Where this trial is running

Madison, Wisconsin

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Streptococcal Pharyngitis, Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.