Name of the Procedure:

Infectious Agent Detection by Nucleic Acid (DNA or RNA); Streptococcus, Group A, Amplified Probe Technique

Summary

This procedure involves detecting the presence of Group A Streptococcus (Strep A) bacteria using amplified probe techniques that identify the genetic material (DNA or RNA) of the bacteria.

Purpose

This test is designed to quickly and accurately diagnose infections caused by Group A Streptococcus. It helps in confirming cases of strep throat, scarlet fever, and other related infections, enabling timely and appropriate treatment.

Indications

• Persistent sore throat
• Fever
• Swollen and tender lymph nodes in the neck
• Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches or streaks of pus
• Recent exposure to someone with Strep A infection

Preparation

• No special preparations are required.
• Patients do not need to fast or adjust medications before the test.

Procedure Description

1. A healthcare provider will ask the patient to open their mouth wide.
2. Using a sterile swab, the provider will collect a sample from the tonsils and the back of the throat.
3. The collected sample is then subjected to a nucleic acid amplification technique, which involves amplifying the bacterial DNA or RNA to detectable levels.
4. An amplified probe specific to Group A Streptococcus is used to identify the presence of the bacteria's genetic material.

Tools and Equipment:

• Sterile swab
• Laboratory equipment for nucleic acid amplification (e.g., PCR machine)
• Amplified Group A Streptococcus probe

Anesthesia:

• No anesthesia or sedation is required.

Duration

The swabbing procedure takes only a few seconds, while the laboratory analysis typically requires a few hours.

Setting

Typically performed in a medical clinic or outpatient setting.

Personnel

• Trained medical professionals such as nurses or physicians to collect the sample.
• Laboratory technicians to conduct the nucleic acid amplification and analysis.

Risks and Complications

• Discomfort or gagging during the throat swab.
• Very low risk of infection or bleeding from the swab.

Benefits

• Quick, accurate detection of Group A Streptococcus.
• Helps in the timely administration of appropriate antibiotic treatment.
• Reduces the risk of complications from untreated infections, such as rheumatic fever.

Recovery

• No significant recovery time is needed.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately after the swab is taken.
• Follow any specific instructions provided by the healthcare provider regarding the test results and subsequent treatment.

Alternatives

• Rapid antigen detection test (RADT) for Strep A
  • Pros: Quick results, usually available within minutes.
  • Cons: May not be as sensitive as nucleic acid detection methods.
• Throat culture
  • Pros: Highly accurate.
  • Cons: Takes longer to obtain results (24-48 hours).

Patient Experience

• Mild discomfort or gagging sensation during the throat swab.
• Minimal, if any, pain associated with the procedure.
• Comfort measures include taking deep breaths and relaxing during the swab.