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Pathology Laboratories UF Path Labs - Department of Pathology
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Group B Streptococcus Colonization Detection Culture

Additional Information:


UFHPL Epic Order Code: LAB5205

Synonyms:

  • Culture, Genital, Group B β-Hemolytic Streptococcus
  • Genital β-Hemolytic Culture, Group B
  • Group B β-Hemolytic Strep Culture, Vaginal or Rectal
  • β-Hemolytic Streptococcus Culture, Group B Only, Any Source

CPT Code(s):

87081

Collection Procedure:

Collection of both a vaginal and rectal swab specimen is strongly recommended. Swab the lower vagina (vaginal introitus), followed by the rectum (i.e., insert a swab through the anal sphincter) using the same swab. Move the swab from side to side, or rotate the swab at the collection site, allowing for several seconds for the absorption of organisms by the swab. Cervical, perianal, perirectal or perineal specimens are not acceptable, and a speculum shouromterrld not be used for culture collection.

Specimen Requirements:


Type: Swab of vaginal and rectal specimen

Container/Tube: Sterile screw-cap container or stool transport (Para-Pak® white clean vial); no preservative

  • Other container types often leak or even explode during transport and may be rejected by the laboratory.

Sample Volume: Single or double bacterial swab in Amies agar gel transport or equivalent

Minimum Volume: Single bacterial swab in Amies agar gel transport or equivalent

Storage: Specimens should be kept at room temperature.

Rejection Criteria:

  • Inappropriate specimen transport
  • Inappropriate transport conditions
  • Improper labeling
  • Specimen received after prolonged delay (more than 48 hours)
  • Cervical/endocervical, perianal, perirectal or perineal specimen, or any source other than vagina and rectum

Use:


Isolate and identify group B β-streptococci

Methodology:


Selective broth enrichment culture and aerobic bacterial culture

Reported:


3-4 days