Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. For a rapid strep test, the throat and tonsils are swabbed to collect bacteria from the infected area for testing. The bacteria are analyzed to see whether Group A strep (streptococcal) bacteria are causing the sore throat. A good sample of throat secretions is needed to make sure the test is accurate. A person must remain very still during the procedure so that the doctor is able to collect enough secretions for an accurate test. Results of a rapid strep test are available in 10 to 15 minutes. It may be done so your doctor can find out right away whether you have strep throat. There is another test for strep, called a throat culture, but that test takes a few days to get the results. You don't need to do anything before you have this test. A normal or negative test means that strep bacteria may not be present. An abnormal or positive strep test means that strep bacteria are present. Current as of: September 8, 2022 Author: Healthwise Staff Next Section: Previous Section: Next Section: Previous Section: Next Section: Previous Section: Next Section: Previous Section: Next Section: Previous Section: Current as of: September 8, 2022 Author: Healthwise Staff Medical Review:Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Donald R. Mintz MD - Otolaryngology This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2023 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.Topic Contents
Rapid Strep Test for Strep Throat
Overview
Why It Is Done
How To Prepare
How It Is Done
How long the test takes
Results
Normal
Abnormal
Credits
Medical Review:
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Donald R. Mintz MD - Otolaryngology
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: September 8, 2022 Author: Healthwise Staff Medical Review:Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Donald R. Mintz MD - OtolaryngologyRapid Strep Test for Strep Throat