Scarlatina – aspecte clinico-epidemiologice actuale | [Scarlet fever epidemiological and clinical aspects]

Abstract

Scarlet fever is an acute infectious disease caused by toxin-producing group A beta-hemolytic streptococci, with favorable evolution with proper and precocious treatment, but with risk for serious complications; the incidence is highest in children; antibiotics prophylaxis of the contacts is necessary to prevent the spread of the disease. The aim of the study was to evaluate some epidemiological and clinical aspects of scarlet fever with a view to improving precocious diagnosis and to emphasize the necessity of constant epidemiological monitoring in children's communities. It is a retrospective study, achieved on 1314 patients admitted for scarlet fever in Infectious Diseases Hospital of Brasov between 2007-2013. The conclusions showed that scarlet fever has a persistent morbidity, and prevails in children (97.10% cases), persons from urban environments (81.2% cases), and attending a school community – kindergarten (86.52% cases). Throat culture was positive in 56% of cases.