Health Encyclopedia
Streptococcal screen
Definition
A streptococcal screen is a test to detect streptococcal pharyngitis from a throat swab.
Alternative Names
Rapid strep testHow 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 Results
Group A streptococcus is not present.
What Abnormal Results Mean
Group A streptococcus is present (confirms strep throat).
Risks
There are no risks.
Considerations
This test screens for the group A streptococcus organism only and will not detect other causes of sore throat.
Reviewed By: Kenneth Wener, M.D., Division of Infectious Diseases, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
