Strep throat is a common bacterial infection, caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria. This infection can lead to a sore throat, fever, and discomfort. Accurate diagnosis is important because untreated strep throat can lead to more serious complications, such as rheumatic fever, which can affect the heart. Understanding the testing process and how long it takes to receive results can help individuals know what to expect and when to seek treatment.
Understanding Strep Test Types and Their Wait Times
Healthcare providers typically perform tests to confirm Group A Streptococcus bacteria when strep throat is suspected. The most common initial test is the Rapid Strep Test, also known as a Rapid Antigen Detection Test (RADT). This test involves swabbing the back of the throat and tonsils to collect a sample. Results from a rapid strep test are generally available very quickly, often within 5 to 20 minutes.
While rapid tests offer convenience and speed, they can sometimes produce false negative results. If a rapid test is negative but strep throat is still strongly suspected, especially in children and teenagers, a throat culture is often performed to confirm the diagnosis. A throat culture is considered the “gold standard” for accuracy and involves sending the throat swab to a laboratory where the sample is cultured to see if bacteria grow. Results from a throat culture take longer, typically 24 to 48 hours, but can sometimes take up to 5 days.
A newer option for diagnosing strep throat is the molecular test, often using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technology. This test detects the genetic material of the Group A Strep bacteria and offers high accuracy, similar to a throat culture, but with a much faster turnaround time. Molecular test results can often be available within a few hours of the sample reaching the laboratory. These tests combine the speed of rapid tests with the sensitivity of cultures.
Factors That Can Delay Your Strep Test Results
Several factors can influence how long it takes to receive strep test results. The volume of tests being processed at a laboratory can significantly affect turnaround times. During peak illness seasons or outbreaks, labs may experience high demand, leading to longer waits for results. This increased workload can slow down processing, even for tests that are inherently quick.
Weekend and holiday closures can also introduce delays. If a sample is collected on a Friday afternoon or before a public holiday, it might not be processed until the next business day, extending the overall waiting period. Laboratories may have reduced staffing or operating hours during these times, which can push back the delivery of results.
The transportation of the specimen from the clinic where it was collected to the testing laboratory is another potential source of delay. If the lab is off-site, the time taken for the sample to travel can add several hours.
Finally, the clinic’s internal communication protocols play a role in how quickly you are notified of your results. Once the lab sends results, the clinic needs time to review them and contact patients. This process can vary between healthcare providers and may involve administrative steps that add to the waiting time.
Next Steps After Receiving Your Strep Test Results
Once strep test results are available, the next steps depend on whether the result is positive or negative. If you receive a positive result, indicating Group A Streptococcus, a healthcare provider will typically prescribe antibiotics. It is important to complete the entire course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve quickly, to fully eliminate the bacteria and prevent potential complications. Most individuals begin to feel better within one to two days of starting antibiotic treatment.
A negative strep test result suggests your sore throat is likely not caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria. In such cases, the healthcare provider will explore other potential causes for your symptoms, as many sore throats are viral and do not require antibiotics. Viral infections typically resolve on their own with supportive care, such as rest and fluids.
Regardless of the test outcome, contact your healthcare provider if your symptoms worsen or do not improve as expected. This applies even if you have started antibiotics for a positive test, or if your symptoms persist after a negative test result. Seeking further medical advice ensures appropriate management.