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Choose collection locationMicrobiology & PCR · Individual laboratory test
Strep A Rapid Detection Test, Throat Swab
This throat swab checks for group A streptococcal antigen in someone being evaluated for a sore throat.
Price for this test on its ownAED 175Test price AED 75
Clinical authorDr Nirupama SabhapathySpecialist Clinical Pathology
- Sample
- Swab
- Laboratory turnaround
- 24 hours
- Collection
- Dubai
- Laboratory
- Intel Lab
Understanding the test
What does the Strep A Rapid Detection Test measure?
Also called Strep Throat Antigen
A clinician may request this test when symptoms and examination are compatible with group A streptococcal throat infection.
When it may be requested
Investigating a sore throat
The throat swab checks for group A streptococcal antigen.
Considering a negative result
Age, examination and symptoms influence whether a follow-up culture is needed.
Before your sample
Prepare for collection
SpecimenSwab
Your checklist
Follow the laboratory's instructions about mouthwash, lozenges, gargles and food or drinks immediately before the throat swab. Tell the team about any antibiotics already taken.
A clinician takes a throat swab for this order. Tell them about recent treatment and when your symptoms began.
Smart Report
Understanding your result
24 hoursLaboratory turnaround
Result guideStrep A Rapid Detection Test, Throat Swab
Reading your result
A positive result supports the diagnosis in an appropriate clinical setting. The need for further testing after a negative result depends partly on the patient's age.
What can affect it
- A positive result can occur in a carrier whose current sore throat has another cause.
From sample to follow-up
Your testing journey
Laboratory testStrep A Rapid Detection Test, Throat Swab
- Specimen
- Swab
- Turnaround
- 24 hours
Open your laboratory report
Look for Strep A Rapid Detection Test, Throat Swab in your report. Use the sample type and collection time when comparing it with an earlier report.
Explore Smart Report
Discuss the next step
Ask whether your age and symptoms make a follow-up throat culture appropriate after a negative rapid result.
Clinical expertise
Your laboratory team
Patient questions
Before you book
Could a negative rapid swab need further testing?
Yes. For a symptomatic child aged three years or older, a negative rapid antigen test should be followed by a throat culture. For adults, a culture after a negative rapid test is usually unnecessary. If symptoms worsen or persist, contact your clinician.
What are the symptoms of strep throat?
Strep throat typically causes a sore throat with fever, painful swallowing, pus on the tonsils and swollen glands in the neck, usually without a cough. It is commonest in children and young adults. A rash alongside the sore throat can mean scarlet fever, caused by the same bacterium. Cough, runny nose and hoarseness point more towards a viral cold.
Does this test check for other causes of a sore throat?
No. Only Group A Streptococcus is looked for, so other bacteria that can cause a sore throat are not reported, and viruses are not tested at all. A Not Detected result therefore rules out neither. If symptoms are severe or not settling, your doctor may examine you again and arrange other tests.
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Your next step
Strep A Rapid Detection Test at home.
Sources & further reading
Written by Dr Nirupama Sabhapathy, Specialist Clinical Pathology. Medically reviewed by Dr Joyce Jose, Specialist Clinical Pathology, on .
Catalogue information and AED price checked on 2 November 2026. Clinical suitability, preparation, collection arrangements and turnaround are confirmed for your selected test.