MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Throat swab culture

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Throat swab culture

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative names Definition How the test is performed How to prepare for the test	How the test will feel Why the test is performed Normal Values What abnormal results mean What the risks are

Illustrations

Throat anatomy

Throat swabs

Alternative names Return to top

Throat culture and sensitivity; Culture - throat

Definition Return to top

Throat swab culture is a laboratory test done to isolate and identify organisms that may cause infection in the throat.

How the test is performed Return to top

The back of the throat is swabbed with a sterile cotton swab near the tonsils. The swab is placed in a tube of culture medium. In order to improve the chances of detecting bacteria, the swab may be used to scrape the back of the throat several times. This test is used primarily to identify strep throat. However, depending on the type of culture medium used, other organisms may be detected.

How to prepare for the test Return to top

Tilt your head back with your mouth wide open. Resist gagging and closing the mouth while the swab touches the back of the throat near the tonsils. Do not use antiseptic mouthwashes before the test.

Infants and children:
The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age, previous experience, and level of trust. For general information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following:

Infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
Toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
Preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
Schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)

How the test will feel Return to top

Your throat may be sore at the time the test is taken. You may experience a gagging sensation when the back of your throat is touched with the swab, but the test only lasts a few seconds.

Why the test is performed Return to top

The test is performed when a throat infection is suspected, particularly strep throat.

Normal Values Return to top

The presence of the usual mouth and throat bacteria is a normal finding.

What abnormal results mean Return to top

The growth of certain organisms such as group A beta-hemolytic streptococci (which causes strep throat) as well as other organisms which cause diphtheria and gonorrhea is abnormal and may indicate infection.

What the risks are Return to top

This test is safe and well-tolerated. In very few patients, the sensation of gagging may lead to an urge to vomit or cough.

Update Date: 8/11/2003

Updated by: Kenneth Wener, M.D., Department of Infectious Diseases, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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