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Encyclopedia Home > Test (A-Z) > Streptococcal screen

Streptococcal screen

Definition

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.

Review Date: 2006-02-10
Reviewed By: Kenneth Wener, M.D., Division of Infectious Diseases, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © HealthProfessor LLC. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.