What is analysed?

Streptococcus pyogenes, commonly known as Group A streptococcus, are bacteria that can affect the throat, leading to infections in this area such as strep throat. However, Group A Streptococcus isn’t the only possible bacterial cause for an infection of the throat. Most throat infections will also be caused by viruses.

A throat culture is used to detect and identify the presence and the specific bacteria causing a throat infection. 

What does the result mean?

The result indicates the presence and the type of bacteria present.

Why conduct the analysis?

A throat culture is conducted to help diagnose bacterial infections in the throat (usually Group A Streptococcus) and to guide appropriate antibiotic therapy. 

When to conduct the analysis?

A throat culture is conducted when symptoms such as a sore throat and fever are suspected to be caused by bacteria.

What sample is required?

A swab of the throat and tonsils is required.

Is any prior preparation necessary?

A throat culture should be performed before any antibiotics are prescribed, as these could affect the test results.

How is it performed?

The sample is sent to a laboratory, where it is streaked onto a special culture medium that promotes the growth of bacteria. The culture is then incubated to allow any bacteria present to multiply. After incubation, the colonies of bacteria are identified and tested for susceptibility to antibiotics.

What are the normal values?

A negative test result indicates that a bacterial infection isn’t the cause of the symptoms. Further investigation may be needed to identify viral or other non-bacterial causes.

What does having altered values mean?

• Positive for Group A Streptococcus: Indicates strep throat.
• Positive for other bacteria: Indicates another type of bacteria present. The infection may not be strep throat.