Strep Test

Also known as: Throat culture; Culture, throat; Rapid strep test

Formal name: Group A streptococcus; Group A beta hemolytic streptococcus

Related tests: Influenza; Blood culture; ASO

At a Glance

Why Get Tested?

To determine if a sore throat is "strep throat" that is caused by group A streptococcus (GAS)

When to Get Tested?

When you have a sore throat that your doctor thinks may be due to a bacterial infection

Sample Required?

A swab rubbed against the back of your throat and tonsils

Test Preparation Needed?

None

This article was last reviewed on July 15, 2009. | This page was last modified on November 14, 2009.

The review date indicates when the article was last reviewed from beginning to end to ensure that it reflects the most current science. A review may not require any modifications to the article, so the two dates may not always agree.

The modified date indicates that one or more changes were made to the page. Such changes may or may not result from a full review of the page, so the two dates may not always agree.

This website is certified by Health On the Net Foundation. Click to verify.

We comply with the HONcode standard for
trustworthy health information.
Verify Compliance.

Produced by