Streptococcus, Molecular Detection, Throat

Synonyms

• DYSGALACTIAE
• GAS
• LAB11482
• PHARYNGITIS
• PYOGENES
• STREP THROAT BY PCR
• STREP THROAT PCR
• STREPPCR
• THROAT CULTURE

Cerner Name

Strep Throat PCR

Clinical Info

Preferred test for the detection of Streptococci causing pharyngitis.

Specimen Sources

Oropharynx/Throat

Specimen Types

Swab

Specimen Volume

0.5 mL

Container

Swab

Collection Instructions

Specimen Collection: ESwab - BD™ Liquid Amies Elution Swab
1. Obtain specimen using a E- swab. 2. Tilt patient’s head back to assist in opening of mouth as wide as possible. 3. Depress tongue with a tongue depressor so swab does not touch oral mucosa or tongue. 4. If patient has complained of 1 spot being sore, swab that area well. 5. In 1 continuous motion: A. Swab 1 tonsillar area up then down. B. Move to back of throat as far down as possible and swab there. C. Move to other tonsillar area and swab. D. Swab behind uvula and remove swab. 6. Return swab to ESwab tube to ensure specimen preservation. 7. Label tube with patient’s name (first and last), date and actual time of collection, and type of specimen.  Note:  Specimen source is required on request form for processing.

Transport Instructions

Specimen Stability

Up to 72 hours at room temperature or 2°C to 8°C

Methodology

Nucleic acid test that uses Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
An End-Point PCR test for the qualitative detection  of Group A hemolytic Streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes).

Days Performed

Monday - Sunday
 
Specimen can be stored at room temperature or 2°C to 8°C for up to three days.

Performing Laboratories

Northwell Health Laboratories

CPT

87651

PDM

1763099

Results

Result Interpretation

Forms

• Strep Throat PCR Test Update 03-09-2026