Test Overview
Test Methodology

Real time PCR

Test Usage

Real time PCR test to detect or rule out Beta Strep Group A

Reference Range *

Detected, Not Detected or Inhibited (unable to analyze)

* Reference ranges may change over time. Please refer to the original patient report when evaluating results.

Test Details
Days Set Up
7 days a week
Analytic Time

Not to exceed 4 hours.

Soft Order Code
ERSTA
Synonyms
  • Beta Strep Group A Culture, Throat / Oropharynx, ER
  • Strep Screen, Throat / Nasopharynx, ER
  • Streptococcus pyogenes, Throat / Oropharynx, ER
  • SIA
  • Culture, Throat / Oropharynx, ER
Laboratory
Microbiology
Section
Microbiology
STAT Availability

24 hours/ 7 days a week.

Specimen Requirements
Collection

Collect specimen from throat or oropharynx and place in ESwab. When taking throat specimen, swab both tonsillar pillars and oropharynx.
** When PCR is used as a confirmatory test for a rapid strep screen at the point of care, DO NOT place the swab back into the liquid after performing the rapid test. Send only the remaining liquid in the Eswab transport tube for PCR.
Store at room temperature and send within 24 hours of collection.

Normal Volume
1 ESwab
Minimum Volume
1 ESwab
Storage Temperature
48 hours ambient or refrigerated.
Rejection Criteria
Specimen >48 hours old is unacceptable for this assay.
Frozen specimen is unacceptable.
Additional Information

Replacement test for reflex Strep Screen Culture (SSN) when Rapid Strep EIA Screen is negative

Billing
CPT Code
87651
Fee Code
LA018