Strep throat is a common bacterial infection that affects the throat and tonsils, caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria. Prompt diagnosis through a strep test is important because it allows for appropriate treatment with antibiotics, helping to alleviate symptoms and prevent potential complications.
Strep Test Types and Their Turnaround Times
Two primary methods are used to test for strep throat: the Rapid Strep Test (RST) and the Throat Culture.
The Rapid Strep Test (RST) quickly detects specific proteins, called antigens, from the Group A Streptococcus bacteria in a throat swab sample. This test is often performed directly in a healthcare provider’s office or clinic. Results for an RST are typically available within 5 to 15 minutes.
The Throat Culture is another diagnostic tool, considered more accurate than the rapid test, though it takes longer to process. For a throat culture, a sample collected from the back of the throat is sent to a laboratory. There, the sample is placed on a special dish to allow any bacteria present to grow, which can take time. Results for a throat culture typically become available within 24 to 48 hours, but in some cases, it may take up to 72 hours or even 2 to 5 days.
Several factors can influence the exact turnaround time for test results. The volume of tests being processed at the lab can affect how quickly results are ready. Clinic hours, especially on weekends or holidays, may also extend the waiting period for throat cultures. Even with rapid tests, the specific processing method used by a clinic can cause slight variations in how quickly results are delivered.
Receiving Your Strep Test Results
Once the strep test results are available, healthcare providers typically communicate them to patients through various methods. This might include a direct phone call from the clinic or doctor’s office, or the results may be posted to a secure online patient portal. The method of notification can depend on the clinic’s standard procedures and the patient’s preference.
A “positive” result from either a rapid strep test or a throat culture indicates that Group A Streptococcus bacteria have been detected, confirming a strep throat infection. In this scenario, the healthcare provider will typically prescribe antibiotics, such as penicillin or amoxicillin, to treat the bacterial infection. It is important to complete the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms improve, to fully eliminate the bacteria and prevent complications.
Conversely, a “negative” result means that Group A Streptococcus bacteria were not detected in the sample. If a rapid strep test is negative, but symptoms persist or the healthcare provider still suspects strep, a throat culture may be performed to confirm the absence of the bacteria, especially in children and teenagers. If both tests are negative, the sore throat is likely caused by a viral infection or another condition that does not require antibiotics. In such cases, the healthcare provider may offer advice on managing symptoms while the body recovers naturally.