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HelpTest Code M30 Strep Culture, Throat
Additional Codes
ALAB: STPCUL
PowerChart: Culture Strep Throat
MA Cerner: Strep Culture, Throat
Test Method
Manual; Agar Growth and Biochemical Identification
Specimen Requirement
Throat swab collected using a sterile dacron swab or Cultureswab collection device.
Additional Specimen Collection Information
Collection Instructions:
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Have patient lie or sit with head tilted back.
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Instruct patient to open mouth, stick out tongue and breathe deeply through mouth during procedure.
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Direct maximum lighting toward the back of the throat.
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Using a tongue blade, depress tongue and vigorously swab the tonsillar and posterior pharynx areas which are inflamed, purulent or ulcerated using a sterile dacron swab or Cultureswab.
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Remove swab without touching any other parts of the mouth.
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Label the specimen appropriately with two identifiers, patient name and another identifier, (patient ID number, DOB, etc.) include specimen source, date and time of collection.
Transport the specimen to the laboratory as soon as convenient, within 24 hours of collection.
Performance
Testing performed Monday through Sunday
Typically completed 24 to 48 hours after specimen arrives at the testing site.
Reference Values
No Beta Strep Group A isolated.
The presence or absence of Beta Hemolytic Streptococcus Group A is indicated.
CPT Code Information
87081 Identification of Microorganism; Culture, presumptive, pathogenic organisms, screening only
Useful For
Diagnosis of Group A Strep infection.
If looking for other pathogens, please order a Throat culture.
LOINC Code Information
11268-0 Streptococcus pyogenes [Presence] In Throat By Organism Specific Culture