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Test Code
STARD
Test Name
Group A Strep Antigen, Rapid with Culture
CPT Codes
87880
Included Tests
  • Group A Streptococcal Antigen

Reflexed when appropriate:

  • Throat Culture
Expected Turnaround Time
1 day
Clinical Utility

Group A Streptococcus, or Streptococcus pyogenes, is a bacterium commonly found in the human throat. S. pyogenes causes a wide variety of diseases in humans, the most common being acute pharyngitis or strep throat. Group A Streptococcus infections may result in mild illness (e.g. pharyngitis) or may lead to invasive, life-threatening illness (e.g. Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome). Streptococcus pyogenes may also present in healthy, asymptomatic patients.
Specimen and Container Info

Specimen: Swab of Tonsillar pillars and the Oropharynx

Collection Container: Red Cap Culture Swab without Gel
Collection Instructions
  • The tongue should be depressed while both tonsillar pillars and the oropharynx are swabbed.
  • Any exudates should be swabbed; however the tongue and uvula should be avoided.
  • Do not swab throat in cases of acute epiglottitis.
Transport Instructions

Transport to the laboratory at room temperature.

Stability Requirements

Room Temperature

8 hours

Refrigerated

72 hours
Causes for Rejection
  • Eswabs are not acceptable for Strep A Antigen testing. If Eswabs are submitted Throat Culture or Group A PCR may be ordered.
Methodology
Immunoassay
Performing Location
17th Street Hospital, Carbon Hospital, Cedar Crest Hospital, Cedar Crest Red Lab, Dickson City Hospital, Hecktown Oaks Hospital, Muhlenberg Hospital
Alternate Names
  • Strep Throat Screen
  • GAS Antigen
  • Strep Test
Testing Schedule
Routine, daily
The American Medical Association (AMA) Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes published by HNL Lab Medicine are guidelines and are intended for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the exclusive responsibility of the billing entity. View the Terms.
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