Streptococcal screenDefinition: A streptococcal screen is a test to detect streptococcal pharyngitis from a throat swab.
Alternative Names: Rapid strep test
How the test is performed: The test requires a throat swab. Antibody-antigen technology is used to identify the presence of group A streptococcus from the swab. The test takes about 7 minutes. A culture for group A streptococcus is often done at the same time, because the rapid test may miss some infections.
How to prepare for the test: There is no special preparation. Inform the health care provider if you are taking, or have recently taken, antibiotics.
How the test will feel: Your throat will be swabbed in the area of the tonsils. This may make you gag.
Why the test is performed: The test is performed when strep throat is suspected or when symptoms of pharyngitis (sore throat) are present.
Normal Values: Group A streptococcus is not present.
What abnormal results mean: Group A streptococcus is present (confirms strep throat).
What the risks are: There are no risks.
Special considerations: This test screens for the group A streptococcus organism only and will not detect other causes of sore throat.
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