Recurrent pharyngitis in family of four. Household pet as reservoir of group A streptococci.

A frustrating clinical problem of recurrent streptococcal pharyngitis affected the clinical health, economic well-being, and social function of a family of four. Numerous attempts using conventional methods of treatment failed to permanently eradicate group A beta-hemolytic streptococcal infection from this family. Their pet dog was finally discovered to be a carrier of group A streptococci and was treated concurrently with all family members. Subsequently, no group A streptococcal infections recurred. This report illustrates the importance of detailed investigation of the patient's environment and contacts, including nonhuman contacts, in cases of recurrent infection with a streptococcal agent.