A positive Strep A test result indicates that a person has a bacterial infection caused by the Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria, commonly referred to as strep throat. This bacteria is typically transmitted through contact with saliva and respiratory droplets, or through contact with an infected surface.
Strep throat can cause sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and other symptoms. Without treatment, the infection can lead to more serious health problems, such as rheumatic fever, abscesses, and kidney inflammation.
A positive Strep A test result is usually treated with antibiotics. Common antibiotics used to treat strep throat include penicillin, amoxicillin, and cephalosporins. Antibiotics are usually prescribed for 10 days. It is important to take the entire course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve before the end of the treatment period, to ensure that the infection has been completely eliminated.
It is important to note that a positive Strep A test result does not mean the person has an active infection. A positive result can indicate a past infection that has since been eliminated. In this case, antibiotics are not necessary.
In some cases, a throat culture may be performed to confirm a positive Strep A test result. A throat culture can determine if the bacteria is still present, and if so, what type of antibiotic is needed to treat it.