Streptococcal screen

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Throat anatomy

Throat swabs

A streptococcal screen is a test to detect group A streptococcus, the most common cause of strep throat.

Rapid strep test

The test requires a throat swab. It takes about 7 minutes. The swab is tested to identify group A streptococcus.

There is no special preparation. Inform the health care provider if you are taking, or have recently taken, antibiotics.

Your throat will be swabbed in the area of the tonsils. This may make you gag.

Your health care provider may order this test if you have signs of strep throat or if you have symptoms of pharyngitis (sore throat).

Review Date: 05/09/2010
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).

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