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Test Code LAB1377 Genital Group B Streptococcus, Culture

Useful For

Screening pregnant females for the colonization of Group B Streptococcus.  Screening by culture at 35 to 37 weeks gestation will help determine which females should receive antibiotics during delivery to help prevent infection of the newborn.  

Methodology

Conventional Biochemical Identification Methods

Performing Laboratory

Bozeman Health Laboratory Services

Specimen Requirements

Specimen source is required

 

Specimen Type: Vaginal

Container/Tube: Dual-tipped, Copan swab

Specimen Volume: Adequate amount

Collection Instructions:

  1. Collect specimen at 35-37 weeks gestation.
  2. Remove excess mucus, blood, and/or examination lubricants from cervix.
  3. Insert swab into vagina.  Sample secretions from lower one-third of vaginal mucosa. Rotate swab to ensure uniform sampling.
  4. Insert the same swab approximately 2.5 cm beyond anal sphincter. Gently rotate swab to sample anal crypts.
  5. Return swab to transport tube.
  6. Label tube with patient’s name, identification number, date and time of collection, and type of specimen.
  7. Indicate on the lab requisition if the patient is allergic to penicillin.

Additional Information

  • No gram stain is performed for screening on genital sources.
  • Susceptibilities are available when a penicillin allergy is noted, for an additional charge.

Specimen Transport Temperature

Ambient

Specimen Stability

 

Specimen Type Temperature Time
Double Copan Swab Ambient 48 hours

 

Reference Values

No evidence of recto-vaginal colonization of Group B Streptococcus

Day(s) Test Set Up

Monday through Sunday

Test Classification and CPT Coding

87015-Broth enrichment (if appropriate)

87081-Culture

87077-Aerobic identification (if appropriate)

87186-Susceptibility (if appropriate)