MEDICAL PROCEDURES
Rapid Strep Test
What is a rapid strep test?
The rapid strep test is a fast diagnostic test in common usage to demonstrate whether or not streptococcal bacteria are present in the throat.
Why is identification of streptococcal infection important?
Streptococcal throat infection (strep throat) is a relatively frequent infection that can have serious consequences. The throat infection can be painful and the long-term effects can be devastating. Untreated infection can lead to inflammation of the joints, damage to the nervous system, inflammation and permanent damage to the heart and kidneys. A throat infection with strep needs to be treated with an antibiotic.
What is the traditional test for strep throat?
The traditional test for a strep throat has been a throat culture. The major drawback of a throat culture is that the results take 2 to 3 days.
Why is the rapid test better?
By comparison with culture methods, a rapid strep test is much quicker and can produce results within minutes.
How is a rapid strep test done?
A cotton swab is rubbed against the back of the throat to gather a mucus sample. Some people feel a brief gagging or choking sensation that can be very uncomfortable. The mucus sample on the throat swab is then tested for a protein that comes from the strep bacteria.
What are the limitations of the rapid strep test?
The rapid strep test now in common usage is designed to only detect a certain type of streptococcal bacteria known Group A. Other bacteria which may be the cause of throat infection are not identified by this test. Most rapid strep test methods have a sensitivity of 75-80%, meaning that the test will be positive in 75-80% of people who have a Group A strep infection. Therefore, 20-25% of people who have an infection will be missed if this is the only test done. A negative test may also be the result of antibiotic usage before taking the throat swab. Group A strep frequently disappears rapidly from the throat with the use of a variety of antibiotics.
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