Strep Group A

Test Code

QSTA

Alias/See Also

Quick Strep, Streptococcus A, Group A, Rapid Strep, Strep Screen

CPT Codes
87430

Includes

Rapid Quick Strep A test with negative and inconclusive results reflexing to culture (CXGRA). Additional charges apply.

Preferred Specimen

Culturette (X/M) 2 Swabs from throat or nasopharynx
Do not use swabs with wooden shafts, calcium alginate, or cotton tips.

Instructions

Throat Swab Collection:
Materials needed:

Swabs: Prefer Aerobic swabs (red capped double swab) or may use 2 white swabs.
Tongue depressor

Procedure:

Have the patient open his or her mouth widely.
Depress the tongue with the tongue depressor
Firmly and quickly rub the swab over the back of the throat and the tonsil area. Especially rub on any red, inflammed area or area with white blotches or bands. Do not touch the swabs to the inside of the cheeks or other areas of the mouth if
Place swabs into the swab transport tube.
Label and send to the laboratory. Transport at room temperature.

Specimen Stability

Process swabs as soon as possible after collection. Swabs may be stored at room temperature (15-30°C) or refrigerated (2-8°C) for up to 24 hours.

Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)

Sources other then throat or nasopharynx

Methodology
Thermo Biostar Acceava Strep A -CLIA Waived

Setup Schedule

24x7

Reference Range

Negative

Note: If the rapid strep A result is negative or inconclusive, the 2nd swab is submitted for culture.

Clinical Significance

A rapid strep test is used to determine whether a person with a sore throat (pharyngitis) has a group A streptococcal infection.

Performing Laboratory
CRMC Laboratory
CCMC Laboratory

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.