Streptococcal screen

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Throat anatomy

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.

Review Date: 2/10/2006
Reviewed By: Kenneth Wener, M.D., Division of Infectious Diseases, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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