Point-of-Care Testing for Group A Streptococcus Infection and Influenza

Point of care (POC) testing has emerged as a critical tool in the early and rapid diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases. While the mainstay of these POC tests has been lateral-flow-based antigen detection assays, recent technological advances in nucleic acid detection combined with regulatory changes has allowed more sensitive detection of infectious etiologies in the near-patient setting. This advancement is particularly impactful in the ambulatory setting, where rapid diagnosis can ensure appropriate treatment at the early stages of infection, both preventing more serious sequelae and also improving physician workflow and patient satisfaction. Along with this new technology come concerns about quality of testing, nucleic acid contamination, and the appropriate use of POC tests. This review covers the clinical manifestations of disease, the current state of POC testing, and the impact of molecular testing for both group A Streptococcus infection and influenza.