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Test Code
SAPCR
Test Name
Group A Strep, Throat, PCR
CPT Codes
87651
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). S. pyogenes may also present in healthy, asymptomatic patients.
Specimen and Container Info

Specimen: Swab of Tonsillar pillars and the Oropharynx

Collection Container: Eswab or 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

48 hours

Refrigerated

48 hours
Methodology
Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
Performing Location
Roble Road Core Laboratory
Alternate Names
  • Strep Throat
  • GAS PCR
  • Strep Test Molecular
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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