Rosh Pediatrics Practice Exam

Given the symptoms of sore throat, fever, and lymphadenopathy, which is the most appropriate initial diagnostic test?

1. Complete blood count

2. Heterophile antibodies

3. Rapid streptococcal antigen test

4. Throat culture

The correct answer is: Rapid streptococcal antigen test

In the context of sore throat, fever, and lymphadenopathy, the rapid streptococcal antigen test is the most appropriate initial diagnostic test. This is because these symptoms are commonly associated with streptococcal pharyngitis, particularly Group A Streptococcus. The rapid streptococcal antigen test is designed to detect the presence of streptococcal bacteria in a quick and efficient manner, often providing results within minutes. This test is valuable in clinical practice since it helps to distinguish between viral and bacterial sore throats, allowing for timely intervention and treatment if streptococcal infection is confirmed. Given the clinical urgency often associated with sore throat complaints, especially in pediatric patients, the rapid test serves as a frontline tool in managing these cases effectively. While other diagnostic options like a complete blood count or heterophile antibodies may provide additional information, they are not specifically tailored to confirm a streptococcal infection as directly and quickly as the rapid antigen test. A complete blood count may indicate an elevated white blood cell count, which can be seen in a variety of infections but does not specifically identify the cause. The heterophile antibody test, used mainly for detecting infectious mononucleosis, is not as relevant