Diagnosis
In the diagnosis of strep throat a physical examination is usually first done and the doctor may check and see if symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes, fever, pustule streaks and red spots at the top of the mouth are present as it may indicate a strep throat infection.
However these symptoms don't necessarily mean that the individual has strep throat and further tests would need to be done to confirm the condition. The following tests may be done to diagnose a strep throat infection.
Throat Culture:
In this test a cotton swab is taken and pressed at the back of the throat to collect the fluid and cells for testing purposes. The swab is then tested in a laboratory for a period of 1 or 2 days to determine the presence of strep bacteria. The swab is placed in a vessel along with other substances that enhance the development of strep bacteria. If there is a growth of strep bacteria during the test, then the condition is confirmed as strep throat.
Rapid Antigen Test:
Unlike a throat culture, a rapid antigen test can detect the presence of strep bacteria within minutes by taking the swab and performing a rapid strep test on it. However, although a rapid antigen test is much is much quicker, it is still not as reliable as a throat culture test.
If the rapid strep test returns a negative result then it could indicate that strep bacteria is not present. However a rapid strep test can also at times provide negative results even when strep bacteria is present. Hence, when a rapid strep test returns a negative result, a throat culture is done to confirm the results.
However if the rapid strep test is positive, it clearly indicates the presence of strep bacteria and treatment with antibiotics may be started. It is important that treatment is given soon after the condition is diagnosed in order to prevent the infection from spreading and to reduce chances of any complications.
Next: Strep Throat Treatment
