Definition

A streptococcal screen is a test to detectstreptococcal pharyngitis from a throat swab.

Alternative Names

Rapid strep test

Why the Test is Performed

The test is performed when strep throat is suspected or when symptoms of pharyngitis are present.

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 using, or have recently used, antibiotic therapy.

Infants and children:
The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age, previous experiences, and level of trust. For general information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics:

• Infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
• Toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
• Preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
• Schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
• Adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the Test Will Feel

Your throat will be swabbed in the area of the tonsils. This may produce a gagging sensation.

Risks

There are no risks.

Considerations

This test screens for the group A streptococcus organism only and will not detect other causes of pharyngitis.

Normal Results

Group A streptococcus is not present.

What Abnormal Results Mean

Group A streptococcus is present (confirms strep throat).

Review Date: 1/26/2004
Reviewed By: Daniel Levy, M.D., Ph.D., Infectious Diseases, Greater Baltimore Medical Center, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.