Group B Streptococcus Colonization Detection Culture
Also known as: Culture, Genital, Group B β-Hemolytic Streptococcus, Genital β-Hemolytic Culture, Group B, Group B β-Hemolytic Strep Culture, Vaginal or Rectal, β-Hemolytic Streptococcus Culture, Group B Only, Any Source
Use
Isolate and identify group B β-streptococci
Special Instructions
Collection of both a vaginal and rectal swab specimen is strongly recommended. Do not use a speculum for culture collection. Cervical, perianal, perirectal, or perineal specimens are not acceptable. Storage at room temperature is necessary, and specimens should be received within 48 hours to prevent rejection. For penicillin-allergic women considered at high risk for anaphylaxis, reflex susceptibility testing to clindamycin and erythromycin (D-zone test) is recommended.
Limitations
Susceptibility testing is not routinely performed since group B Streptococcus is typically universally susceptible to penicillin, and surveillance for resistance is advised against. Erythromycin is not an acceptable alternative for intrapartum GBS prophylaxis for penicillin-allergic women at high risk for anaphylaxis, and results for this agent will not be reported. Penicillin G, ampicillin, or cefazolin are indicated for intrapartum prophylaxis without the need for additional susceptibility testing. Resistance to clindamycin warrants treatment with vancomycin.
Methodology
Culture-based
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 547-0
- 547-0
Result Turnaround Time
3-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Other
Volume
Single or double bacterial swab
Minimum Volume
Single bacterial swab
Container
Bacterial Cult Trans Swab with Media or ESwab®
Collection Instructions
Swab the lower vagina (vaginal introitus), followed by the rectum (insert swab through the anal sphincter) using the same swab. Move swab from side to side, or rotate the swab at the collection site.
Storage Instructions
Maintain specimen at room temperature.
Causes for Rejection
Inappropriate specimen transport; inappropriate transport conditions; improper labeling; specimen received after prolonged delay (more than 48 hours); cervical/endocervical, perianal, perirectal or perineal specimen or any source other than vagina and rectum.