Feasibility of a calprotectin swab test to detect bacterial throats
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The feasibility of using a calprotectin throat swab test to detect bacterial throat infections
IRAS ID
198389
Contact name
Nick Francis
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Cardiff University
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 7 months, 0 days
Research summary
Sore throat is a common reason for patients to consult in primary care. Individuals frequently consult because of a belief that antibiotics are needed to treat their infection, and sore throat accounts for nearly a third of antibiotics prescribed in primary care. However, most sore throats are caused by viral upper respiratory tract infections, and a Cochrane review found that overall, less than 10% of antibiotic prescriptions benefit patients.The aim is to determine the feasibility of using a throat swab calprotectin test to differentiate bacterial from viral throat infections. However, the first step is to determine whether calprotectin levels differ between those with sore throat that is likely to be caused by streptococcal infection and those with no sore throat. Our hypothesis is that calprotectin levels will differ in the two groups. A total of 40 patients and participants will be recruited to the study. 30 patients consulting to GPs with a sore throat and 10 healthy volunteers with no sore throat from the staff at Cardiff University. From each participant a throat swab will be taken using a double-headed swab. One head will be used for Rapid Streptococcal Antigen detection and the other for measuring calprotectin. In the patient group, the results of the tests will not be returned to clinicians or patients, and patients will be treated according to their clinical need in the usual manner.On completion of the study the collected throat samples will be stored for future use in the Archie Cochrane Infections Biobank in accordance with its approved quality procedures. (REC reference:15/WA/0368).
REC name
South Central - Berkshire Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/SC/0087
Date of REC Opinion
10 Feb 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion