Test Name: CULTURE: GROUP A STREP SCREEN
Test Code: 2137071
Alias: LAB228
CPT Code(s): 87081  
Test Includes:

Culture for Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus

 
Preferred Specimen:

Throat swab

 
Container:

E-swab collection device (preferred)
Alternate Container:

BBL culture swab (Liquid Amies or Liquid Stuart's media)

 
Collection Instructions:

Using sterile swab, rub the tonsils and pharynx touching any areas of exudate or ulceration present. Avoid touching the cheek, tongue or uvula tissues with the swab.
Transport Temperature:

Room temperature
Stability:

Room temperature: 24 hours

Refrigerated: 48 hours
Rejection Criteria:

Specimens received in expired transport media
Limitations:

Susceptibility testing is not routinely performed as there are no known penicillin resistant strains.  

Other streptococcal groups (B, C, and G) may be associated with pharyngitis but they do not result in the renal and cardiac sequelae associated with Group A strep. 

If gonorrhea is suspected, order GC screen (2137081). If yeast is suspected, order yeast screen (2137085).
Additional Information:

The results will be reported as positive or negative for Group A beta hemolytic Strep. 

 

Additional CPT codes/charges may apply.
Schedule:

Culture plates are examined daily for 2 days (less if positive on the first day).

Method: Bacterial culture isolation
Clinical Significance: Group A Streptococcus is one of the most important causes of acute upper respiratory tract infection. Early diagnosis and treatment of Group A Strep pharyngitis has been shown to reduce the severity of symptoms and further complications such as rheumatic fever and glomerulonephritis. This test detects  viable  Group A streptococci. There are certain clinical findings which strongly suggest either Group A strep (tender anterior cervical lymph node, palatal petechiae) or nonstreptococcal etiology (rhinorrhea, cough, hoarseness, diarrhea). In temperate climates, Group A strep pharyngitis is a disease of the winter and early spring and primarily affects children between 3 and 18 years of age. The sensitivity of a plated culture is generally considered sufficient for use alone in the diagnosis of Group A strep pharyngitis. The culture has a sensitivity of 98%.
Reference Ranges: Negative

The CPT codes included in this publication are in accordance with Current Procedural Terminology, a publication of the American Medical Association. CPT codes are provided here for the convenience of our clients; however, correct coding often varies from one carrier to another, and HealthLab may bill specific carriers using codes other than those shown. Clients who bill for services should verify the code(s) with the applicable payor to confirm that their use is appropriate in each case.
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