title: The Group A Streptococcal Carrier State Reviewed: Still an Enigma.
abstract: Despite the common nature of group A streptococcal (GAS) infections, the carrier state of this organism is not well understood. In this article, we review the historical and recent research on the definition, epidemiology, and pathogenesis of the GAS carrier state. In addition, we outline trials of antimicrobial agents in the eradication of the carrier state and discuss indications for providing treatment to patients in the clinical setting.
authors.affiliation: University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison.
authors.forename: Gregory P
authors.initials: GP
authors.lastname: DeMuri
authors.affiliation: University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison.
authors.forename: Ellen R
authors.initials: ER
authors.lastname: Wald
keywords: Streptococcus pyogenes; carrier state; group A Streptococcus; pharyngitis