Group A Streptococcal Antigen Test
Short Name: Strep A Antigen Test
Also known as: Strep A Test, Rapid Strep Test, GAS Antigen Test, Group A Strep Test
Group A Streptococcal Antigen Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹1,603. Uses Immunoassay (ICT) on Throat Swab samples. Results in Same day; reports available by 1 pm if sample collected by daily cutoff.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal
Consultant Microbiologist · Reg: 27670
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
To diagnose Group A Streptococcus infections, such as strep throat, and guide appropriate antibiotic treatment to prevent complications.
- Test Code
- 669
- Price
- ₹1,603
- Sample Type
- Throat Swab
- Result Time
- Same day; reports available by 1 pm if sample collected by daily cutoff.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Immunoassay (ICT)
Sample Collection
Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking for at least 1 hour before the test. Inform the healthcare provider of any recent antibiotic use.
Method: Throat swab collection
Laboratory Analysis
A sterile swab is gently rubbed over the back of the throat and tonsils to collect the sample. The procedure is quick and may cause mild discomfort.
Report Delivery
The swab is placed in a sterile container and shipped refrigerated for analysis. No specific post-collection care is required.
Timeline: Same day; reports available by 1 pm if sample collected by daily cutoff.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
To diagnose Group A Streptococcus infections, such as strep throat, and guide appropriate antibiotic treatment to prevent complications.
How to Prepare
- Submit throat swab in a sterile screw capped container.
- Ship refrigerated; do not freeze.
- Ensure sample is labeled correctly with patient details.
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"This test is crucial for rapid detection of Group A Streptococcus, enabling prompt antibiotic treatment and reducing complications like rheumatic fever."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Improper container
- Non-refrigerated samples
- Unlabeled or damaged samples
- Samples older than 24 hours
Understanding Your Results
Positive
Group A Streptococcus detected; likely strep throat or related infection. Consult doctor for antibiotics.
Negative
No Group A Streptococcus antigens found. Consider other causes or repeat testing if symptoms persist.
If symptoms such as sore throat, fever, or swollen lymph nodes persist or worsen after a negative test, or if you experience difficulty breathing or severe pain.
Limitations
- ⚠False negatives may occur if bacterial load is low
- ⚠Does not differentiate between active and past infections
- ⚠Confirmatory culture may be needed in some cases
- ⚠Limited to antigen detection; does not assess antibiotic resistance
Risks & Considerations
- ●Mild gagging during swab collection
- ●Rare chance of throat irritation
- ●No significant risks associated with the test
Interfering Factors
- ●Recent antibiotic use
- ●Improper sample collection
- ●Contaminated sample
- ●Use of throat lozenges or mouthwash before test
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Group A Streptococcal Antigen Test | Throat Culture | PCR Test | ASO Titer | Rapid Strep Test |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Group A Streptococcal Antigen Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Group A Streptococcal Antigen Test?
How is the test performed?
Is fasting required for this test?
How accurate is the Group A Streptococcal Antigen Test?
What is the cost of the test?
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What should I do if my test is positive?
Can this test be done at home?
What are the symptoms of Group A Streptococcus infection?
How does this test differ from a throat culture?
Is the test painful?
What should I do if the test is negative but I still have symptoms?
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