Test Name: Throat Swab, Microscopy and culture 
Alternate Test Names Peri-Tonsillar Abscess Swab or Aspirate; Quinsy Drainage, Swab or Aspirate; Tonsillar Swab, Microscopy and culture 
PLS Test Code THRO  Laboratory Microbiology 
Specimen Swab  Analysis Performed On  
Container Transswab- swab in transport medium  Container colour Blue 
Multiple specimens  
Required Volume Adult (mL)   Req Vol Paediatric (mL)  
Reference Ranges  
Turnaround Time Routine   Turnaround Time Urgent  
Turnaround Other Microscopy < 8 hours Culture < 3 days 
Days test is performed Daily  Transport 4 degrees C (On Ice) 
Special Requirements None 
Patient Preparation None 
Collection Instructions Position patient upright with head extended backwards. Firmly press tongue down with spatula. Look into the back of the throat and the tonsillar region for localised areas of inflammation and exudate Carefully but firmly rub the swab over several areas of exudate (if any) or over the tonsils and posterior pharynx Do not touch the cheeks, teeth or gums with the swab as you withdraw it from the mouth. Insert the swab back into the transport medium. Dispatch labelled specimen to Pathology Department with completed request form. 
Clinical Information  
Sent to Reference Laboratory No 
Ref Laboratory Name  
Estimated Patient Fee N/A 
Last Updated 25-Aug-2006 (Version: 1.00)