Synonyms: Throat swab
Related tests: Rapid throat swab
Clinical significance
Non-targeted bacteriological tests are not indicated, because of the large mixed bacterial flora normally present at this site. Culture of throat secretions is carried out to detect group A beta-haemolytic streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes), which is found in the airways and causes localised infections such as tonsillopharyngitis in children, with a peak between the ages of 5 and 15, localised infections with distant effects (scarlet fever), generalised infections (sepsis, endocarditis) and post-streptococcal complications (rheumatic fever and acute glomerulonephritis).
Remember that over 40% of cases of tonsillopharyngitis are caused by viruses, with symptoms indistinguishable from bacterial forms.
Clinical indications
Tonsillopharyngitis
Sample type
Throat exudate
Preparation
Unless your doctor specifically requests otherwise, it is advisable not to have the test while taking antibiotics. Allow at least 7 days after the last dose of antibiotic.