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Test Code LAB4528 CULTURE, THROAT

Infectious

Specimen Type

Preferred Specimen: Eswab Transport System
Alternative Specimen: Amies Gel, Liquid Stuart’s Transport Medium

Collection Instructions

Depress tongue gently with tongue depressor. Extend swab between tonsillar pillars and behind the uvula while avoiding other surfaces of the mouth. In a sweeping motion, move the swab back and forth across the posterior pharynx, tonsillar areas, and/or any inflamed or ulcerated areas.

Turnaround Time

2 Days

Test Schedule

Daily

Sample Stability

Room temperature: 48 hours
Refrigerated: 48 hours
Exception: Specimen must be processed within 24 hours if culture for Neisseria gonorrhoeae requested.

Specimen Processing

Store and transport at room temperature

Method

Organism Isolation

Reference Ranges

Throat Culture:  Normal oral flora

Synonyms

Throat Culture

Test Components

Source; Culture, Throat

Rejection Criteria

Spit or saliva

CPT Code

87070