Throat culture
- Reviewed by Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
What is the test?
StreptococcusHow do I prepare for the test?
No preparation is necessary.
What happens when the test is performed?
A cotton swab is rubbed against the back of your throat to gather a sample of mucus. This takes only a second or two and makes some people feel a brief gagging or choking sensation. The sample may be tested immediately to see if you have strep throat. Your doctor may also take a second sample to place on a culture plate that helps any bacteria present in the mucus grow, so they can be more thoroughly examined and identified.
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About the Reviewer
Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
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