Streptococcus A, B, C/G RT-PCR test

What does this test measure?

Streptococcus pyogenes, alternatively referred to as group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus or group A strep (GAS), is responsible for strep throat, the predominant bacterial source of inflammation and discomfort in the rear part of the throat (pharyngitis). Strep tests encompass rapid strep tests and throat cultures, which identify the presence of these bacteria in a sample extracted from the back of your throat.

What is the purpose of the test?

A rapid strep test and/or a throat culture is used to confirm the presence of group A strep as the underlying cause of symptoms, enabling your healthcare provider to prescribe the appropriate antibiotics for treatment.

Why is this test ordered?

A healthcare provider typically requests a strep test when you exhibit a sore throat along with other symptoms indicative of strep throat. There's a greater likelihood of strep in cases of children with sore throats and when you've had close contact with an individual diagnosed with strep throat. It's advisable for you or your child to seek medical attention and undergo testing if signs and symptoms are present:

• Symptoms of dehydration, such as excessive thirst, dry mouth, decreased urination

• Sore throat that starts quickly and lasts more than a week, or recurrent sore throats
• Blood in saliva or mucus
• Excessive drooling in young children
• Headache, body aches
• Tiny red spots at the back of the roof of the mouth
• Difficulty or severe pain when swallowing
• Hoarseness lasting more than two weeks
• Tender and/or swollen throat or lymph nodes
• Rash
• Reddened (inflamed) throat and/or tonsils with white or yellow patches or streaks
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fever of 101 F or higher

Testing may be omitted when you exhibit symptoms that are more indicative of a viral infection, such as:

• Cough
• Runny nose
• Mouth sores

How can be the result interpreted?

A positive rapid strep test result signifies the presence of strep throat.

A negative rapid test result suggests that strep throat is unlikely. Nonetheless, if your healthcare provider continues to suspect strep, particularly in children and teenagers, a throat culture may be conducted to validate the findings.

A positive result in a throat culture for group A strep confirms the diagnosis of strep throat.

A negative throat culture result indicates that the sore throat is most likely attributable to a viral infection that will typically resolve on its own.

How can I take measures to reduce the transmission of strep throat?

To prevent the transmission of strep throat, practice thorough handwashing, especially after coughing, sneezing, and before handling food or eating. If you experience a sore throat, it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider who can conduct tests to determine if it is indeed strep throat. In the event of a positive test result for strep throat, it is recommended to remain at home and avoid work, school, or daycare until 24 hours after commencing antibiotic treatment.

How can symptoms between strep and influenza be differentiated?

In the midst of flu season, the initial symptoms of influenza, including fever, chills, headache, sore throat, and muscle pain, can resemble those of strep throat. To distinguish between strep and influenza, healthcare providers may conduct both a rapid strep test and a rapid influenza test simultaneously.

While many individuals with strep throat may eventually recover without the need for antibiotics, they remain contagious for a longer duration and face an increased risk of developing secondary complications.