Streptococcus Group A, Molecular Detection, PCR, Throat
Use
This test is used for detecting group A streptococcal infections in patients with signs and symptoms of pharyngitis using a throat swab specimen. It is not intended for monitoring treatment for group A Streptococcus infections.
Special Instructions
Do not collect throat swab specimens immediately after use of antiseptic mouthwash. Specimen must be collected and transported using the ESwab collection kit. Use a tongue blade to hold the tongue down, and firmly rub the swab over the tonsils, posterior pharynx, and any areas of inflammation with exudate.
Limitations
The Xpert Xpress Strep A test does not differentiate asymptomatic carriers from those exhibiting streptococcal infection. Negative results do not exclude the possibility of infection due to limitations like improper specimen collection, technical error, sample mix-up, or low organism count. Variants or nucleotide alterations in primer or probe binding regions may affect detection, resulting in false negatives. Detection of Streptococcus pyogenes is dependent on the organism's DNA present; reliable results depend on proper specimen collection, handling, and storage. The assay does not differentiate between living and non-viable bacteria.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
PCR-based (RT-PCR)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 60489-2
- 60489-2
Result Turnaround Time
0-1 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Oropharyngeal Swab
Volume
Entire collection/1 ESwab
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
BD Liquid Amies Elution Swab (ESwab)
Collection Instructions
Must be collected and transported using the ESwab collection kit. Avoid tongue, teeth, and gums. Insert the swab back into the ESwab transport tube and break the swab at the indicated score line. Send refrigerated. Do not freeze.
Patient Preparation
Do not collect throat swab specimens immediately after use of antiseptic mouthwash.
Storage Instructions
Send refrigerated. Do not freeze.
Causes for Rejection
Specimens collected in media other than ESwab collection kit
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 48 hours |
| Refrigerated | 6 days |