Strep A Test
Strep A tests are used to determine if a sore throat is caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria, which requires antibiotic treatment to prevent serious complications.
What is a strep A test?
Group A Streptococcus is a type of bacteria that causes infections like strep throat. It is most common in children ages 5 to 15. The infection spreads through the air via coughing or sneezing, or by touching contaminated surfaces. There are two types of tests:
- Rapid strep test: Looks for antigens and provides results in 10–20 minutes.
- Throat culture: Looks for the bacteria itself; it is more accurate but takes 24–48 hours for results.
Why do I need a strep A test?
Your provider may order a test if you or your child has symptoms such as:
- Sudden, severe sore throat
- Pain or trouble swallowing
- Fever of 101 °F (38 °C) or more
- Swollen lymph nodes and tonsils
- White patches or pus on the tonsils
- Petechiae (tiny red spots on the roof of the mouth)
A rough, red rash spreading from the face may indicate scarlet fever, which also requires antibiotic treatment.
What happens during the test?
A health care professional will use a tongue depressor to hold your tongue down and a special swab to collect a sample from the back of your throat and tonsils. The procedure may cause slight discomfort or gagging.
Understanding Results
If a rapid test is negative but symptoms persist, a throat culture is often performed. If the result is positive, antibiotics are prescribed. It is critical to finish the entire course of antibiotics, even if you feel better, to prevent complications such as:
- Rheumatic fever (which can damage the heart and joints)
- Abscesses around the tonsils
- Sinus or ear infections
- Glomerulonephritis (a type of kidney disease)
Prevention
To prevent the spread of group A strep, wash your hands frequently, cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing, and disinfect frequently touched objects. Having strep throat once does not protect you from getting it again.