Definition

Throat swab culture is a laboratory test done to isolate and identify organisms that may cause infection in the throat.

Alternative Names

Throat culture and sensitivity; Culture - throat

How the test is performed

Tilt your head back with your mouth wide open. The back of the throat is swabbed with a sterile cotton swab near the tonsils. Resist gagging and closing the mouth while the swab touches the back of the throat near the tonsils.

In order to improve the chances of detecting bacteria, the swab may be used to scrape the back of the throat several times.

How to prepare for the test

Do not use antiseptic mouthwashes before the test.

How the test will feel

Your throat may be sore at the time the test is taken. You may experience a gagging sensation when the back of your throat is touched with the swab, but the test only lasts a few seconds.

Why the test is performed

The test is performed when a throat infection is suspected, particularly strep throat.

Normal Values

The presence of the usual mouth and throat bacteria is a normal finding.

What abnormal results mean

An abnormal result means bacteria or other organism is present. This is usually a sign of infection.

What the risks are

This test is safe and well-tolerated. In very few patients, the sensation of gagging may lead to an urge to vomit or cough.

Special considerations

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