Culture & Sensitivity - Throat Swab Test
Get Your Throat Evaluated Accurately For Infections With Our Culture-Throat Swab Test.
Disease.
Viral & Bacterial infection Tests
Department.
Microbiology
TAT.
2 – 3 Days
Sample Type
- Submit throat swab in transport medium available from GENEXLAB.
- If C. diphtheriae is suspected, CULTURE, DIPHTHERIA
What is a Culture-Throat Swab?
A Culture throat swab is a diagnostic test performed to identify infections in the throat; this includes bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. In this test, a cotton-tipped applicator is rubbed gently on the back of the throat, tonsils, and surrounding areas to obtain a sample of mucus, bacteria, or other pathogens. The sample is then placed in a culture medium to identify the type of infection present.
This test is particularly important in the management of conditions such as strep throat which is an infection with Group A Streptococcus, viral infections like the flu, and other throat-related diseases. It helps healthcare providers to tell the difference between various kinds of infections and prescribe the right treatment.
How is the Test Performed?
The Culture-Throat Swab test is conducted in a laboratory or clinical setting and involves the following
Preparation
- Avoid using mouthwash before the test.
- Inform your doctor about the medications you are taking.
- The patient might feel slight discomfort or gagging during the collection procedure.
Collection
- A trained technician uses a tongue depressor to widely open the mouth
- The technician will rub the swab gently on the back of the throat and the tonsils.
Lab Analysis
- The sample is then placed in the culture media to observe the microbial growth under a microscope
What are the symptoms that prompt this test?
The healthcare provider looks for the following symptoms when recommending this test;
General Symptoms
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Swallowing difficulty
- Tonsils appear to be red and swollen
What are Normal Ranges for This Test?
The goal of the culture throat swab is to observe the growth of the microbes thus the results are given as positive or negative as it is a qualitative test;
- Negative – No bacterial or fungal growth observed
- Positive – Presence of bacteria including Group A Streptococcus, Haemophilus influenzae or Neisseria gonorrhoeae, or viruses such as the flu viruses.
**If the results are negative but the symptoms are present it means that an underlying undiagnosed condition is causing the symptoms whereas if the test result comes out to be positive the healthcare provider starts the treatment plan according to the type of infection.**
What Happens if Test Results Show Abnormal Levels?
Abnormal growth is suggestive of the presence of an infection that requires immediate medical attention, the following conditions might be present;
- Strep throat
- Tonsillitis
- Gonorrhea
- Other STIs
The doctor will start the treatment according to the type of pathogen, he will start administering antibiotics, antiviral, antifungal medications. Lifestyle modifications are also suggested such as practicing good hygiene and keeping your environment clean to avoid contracting the infection again.
Why Choose Genex?
State Of The Art Technology
We use advanced technology and equipment to ensure precise and reliable results. Our cutting-edge tools and methodologies guarantee the highest standards of lab testing.
Highly Skilled Team
Our team consists of skilled technicians trained to handle complex hormonal tests with high accuracy. Each member has years of experience & specialized knowledge to every test.
Fast Turnaround Time
Get your results quickly, helping to make timely decisions regarding your health. We understand the importance of prompt information for effective health management.
Patient-Centered Care
Genex Lab prioritizes your comfort and satisfaction throughout the testing process. Our compassionate approach ensures a supportive and reassuring experience for patients.
Related Tests
- Viral Respiratory Panel PCR