Throat Culture
Test Code
CXTHR
Description
A throat culture is a rarely utilized culture that may be used to determine atypical pharyngitis. Organisms included in this culture are Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A), Streptococcus dysgalactiae (Group C & G) and Arcanobacterium haemolyticum. Note the following:
- The primary bacterial cause of pharyngitis is Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A), for which Group A Strep Culture (CXGRA) should be used.
- Neisseria gonorrhoeae is an infrequent cause of bacterial pharyngitis, but is not detected by this test since the CDC recommends molecular NAATs for detection of N. gonorrhoeae from pharyngeal specimens. Similarly, Bordetella pertussis is best identified using methods other than culture and is not included in this test.
- C. diphtheriae is not included in this culture due to its low frequency in the population.
- Viral causes of pharyngitis are not included. Use the Respiratory Panel (RPCOV) for molecular detection of a wide range of these organisms.
Collect
Swab the posterior pharynx, tonsillar area, and inflamed areas of the throat. Place gentle pressure on the tongue with a tongue depressor. Extend 2 sterile swabs between the tonsillar pillars and behind the uvula avoiding the tongue, buccal mucosa, and uvula. Sweep the swab back and forth across the infected area. Do not obtain a specimen if the epiglottis is inflamed, as sampling may trigger life-threatening respiratory obstruction.
Patient Prep
Avoid antibiotic administration prior to sample collection.
Unacceptable Conditions
- Specimens received outside of temperature storage requirements
- Specimens received outside of stability time frame
- Specimens that do not meet the minimum volume requirement
- Specimens in non-sterile swabs
Specimens in expired transport media
Specimens from a source not acceptable for this testing - Specimens that are excessively leaking
- Mislabeled or unlabeled specimen
Stability
- For optimal recovery of potential pathogens, specimens should arrive within 2 hours at room temperature (20-25°C)
- If transportation is delayed, specimens can remain at room temperature (20-25°C) for a maximum of 24 hours
Performed
7 days a week from 8am to 6pm
Methodology
Aerobic bacterial culture
Turnaround Time
2 days
Department
Microbiology Lab
Synonyms
Upper respiratory screen
Study Offerings
CAP/CLIA
Related Tests
RPCOV, CXGRA
Reference Interval
- Semi-quantification of normal respiratory flora
- No respiratory pathogens isolates
Interpretation
Normal flora and potential pathogens may be reported
CPT Code
87081
New York Approved
Standard
FDA
Standard Method