| Definition: |
A streptococcal screen is a test to detect streptococcal pharyngitis from a throat swab.
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| Alternative Names: |
Rapid strep test
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| 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.
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| 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:
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| How the test will feel: |
Your throat will be swabbed in the area of the tonsils. This may produce a gagging sensation.
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| Why the test is performed: |
The test is performed when strep throat is suspected or when symptoms of pharyngitis are present.
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| Normal Values: |
Group A streptococcus is not present.
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| What abnormal results mean: |
Group A streptococcus is present (confirms strep throat).
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| What the risks are: |
There are no risks.
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| Special considerations: |
This test screens for the group A streptococcus organism only and will not detect other causes of pharyngitis.
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