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Test Code Billings Clinic: 6611 Streptococcus Screen

Performing Laboratory

Billings Clinic Laboratory: Microbiology

Useful For

This test determines the presence of group A streptococcus.

Methodology

Immunoassay and Culture

Specimen Requirements

Collect as follows:

  • Obtain specimen using a Culturette IITM swab (double swab) supplied.1. Remove cap and swabs from tube.
  • Tilt patient’s head back to assist in opening mouth as wide as possible.
  • Depress tongue with a tongue depressor so swab does not touch tongue.
  • If patient has complained of 1 spot being sore, swab that area well.
  • In 1 continuous motion:
  1. Swab 1 tonsillar area up then down.
  2. Move to back of throat as far down as possible and swab.
  3. Move to other tonsillar area and swab.
  4. Swab any exudate.
  5. Avoid tongue and uvula.
  • Return swabs to Culturette IITM and crush ampule to preserve specimens.
  • Label tube with patient’s name (first and last), date and actual time of collection, and type of specimen
  • Maintain sterility and forward promptly at ambient temperature only.
  • Specimen source is required on request form for processing.

Reference Values

Negative

Day(s) Test Set Up

Daily

Test Classification and CPT Coding

87880 - streptococcus, group A
87081 - culture, presumptive (if appropriate)

Profile/Testing Information

Reflex Information:

  • When the immunoassay (rapid test) is negative, this test will reflex to a culture throat strep only.
  • This test may automatically reflex to other tests. An additional fee may be added.
  • The ordering physician/provider must indicate if the reflex test is NOT DESIRED. Indicate on order if no reflex test is desired.