Additional Info:
All specimens submitted for a routine throat culture will be screened for group A streptococcal antigen unless otherwise specified. If the antigen is detected, no further testing will be performed. If the antigen is not detected, a culture will be performed. If indicated, further testing considered medically appropriate will be reflexed, resulting in additional charges.
Methodology: Rapid Immunoassay, Multiple methodologies
Specimen Requirements:
Unacceptable specimen:
Specimen collected in anaerobic (gel) swab
Throat culture submitted on a plain swab. Refrigerate specimen after collection.
NOTE: Strep screen may be ordered STAT.
Analytical Time: 1 day
Days Set Up: Monday through Sunday
CPT Reflex: Reflex Code: 87070-throat culture
CPT Information:
87430 – throat screen