What is the purpose of a throat culture?
The primary purpose of a throat culture is identification of the specific organisms that cause strep throat. These organisms are Group A streptococci, specifically Streptococcus pyogenes. Since most sore throats are caused by viral infections rather than by S. pyogenes, a correct diagnosis is important to prevent unnecessary use of antibiotics and to begin treatment of strep infections as soon as possible. Group A streptococcal infections are potentially life-threatening, often involving other parts of the body in addition to the throat. Besides causing sore throat (pharyngitis), streptococci can also cause scarlet fever, rheumatic fever, kidney disease, or abscesses around the tonsils. Throat cultures can also be used to identify other disease organisms that are present in the patient’s throat; and to identify people who are carriers of the organisms that cause meningitis and whooping cough. Besides their use in diagnosis, throat cultures are sometimes used to test antibiotics for the
