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HelpTest ID CGAS Group A Streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes) Culture
Useful For
Diagnosis of perianal cellulitis or for screening of patients and health care workers for Streptococcus pyogenes for the purpose of investigating possible nosocomial transmission
Reflex Tests
| Test ID | Reporting Name | Available Separately | Always Performed |
|---|---|---|---|
| RMALD | Ident by MALDI-TOF mass spec | No, (Bill Only) | No |
| GID | Bacteria Identification | No, (Bill Only) | No |
| STRP | Identification Streptococcus | No, (Bill Only) | No |
| ISAE | Aerobe Ident by Sequencing | No, (Bill Only) | No |
Testing Algorithm
When this test is ordered, the reflex tests may be performed and charged.
Method Name
Conventional Culture Technique
Reporting Name
Grp A Strep (S. pyogenes) CultureSpecimen Type
VariesSubmit only 1 of the following specimens:
Preferred:
Specimen Type: Rectal, perirectal, perianal, or anal
Container/Tube: Culture transport swab
Specimen Volume: Swab
Additional Information:
1. Specimen source is required.
2. Primarily to be collected from pediatric patients.
Acceptable:
Specimen Type: Vaginal
Container/Tube: Culture transport swab
Specimen Volume: Swab
Additional Information:
1. Specimen source is required.
2. Submission of a vaginal source is limited to Infection Prevention and Control test orders.
Specimen Type: Throat or pharynx
Container/Tube: Culture transport swab
Specimen Volume: Swab
Additional Information:
1. Specimen source is required.
2. Submission of throat or pharynx sources is limited to Infection Prevention and Control test orders.
Specimen Type: Skin or wound
Container/Tube: Culture transport swab
Specimen Volume: Swab
Additional Information:
1. Specimen source is required.
2. Submission of skin or wound sources is limited to Infection Prevention and Control test orders.
Specimen Stability Information
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Varies | Ambient (preferred) | 24 hours |
| Refrigerated | 24 hours |
Clinical Information
Streptococcus pyogenes (group A streptococcus) is a common cause of pharyngitis and skin and soft tissue infection. In children, Streptococcus pyogenes can cause perianal infection. The classic presentation is a well-demarcated rash around the anus, with itching, rectal pain, and occasionally, blood-streaked stools. Untreated, painful defecation, toilet avoidance, and constipation may persist for months, until effective treatment is administered. Anal fissures may ensue. A swab of the affected area may be submitted for Streptococcus pyogenes culture to confirm the diagnosis.
Health care workers may transmit Streptococcus pyogenes to their patients (eg, in the postsurgical setting) leading to outbreaks of invasive disease. Screening of health care workers or other patients for Streptococcus pyogenes may be requested by Infection Prevention and Control as part of an investigation of a potential nosocomial case (or cases). Isolates may be typed to assess strain relatedness.
Reference Values
Negative
Cautions
No significant cautionary statements
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Sunday; Continuously
Report Available
2 daysPerforming Laboratory
Mayo Medical Laboratories in Rochester
Test Classification
This test uses a standard method. Its performance characteristics were determined by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements.CPT Code Information
87081-Strep Grp A (S. pyogenes) culture
87077-Ident by MALDI-TOF mass spec (if appropriate)
87077-Bacteria identification (if appropriate)
87077-Identification Streptococcus (if appropriate)
87153-Aerobe ident by sequencing (if appropriate)