Laboratory Services

Group B Strep Culture

Print this page

Updated Test Information:

Test Description
Group B Strep Culture
Synonym(s)

Group B Strep Screen, GBS culture, GBS screen, Prenatal screen

Test ID
CULTBSTREP
General Information

Beta-hemolytic Group B Streptococcus (GBS), also known as Streptococcus agalactiae, is important to identify in rectal/genital tracts because of its ability to cause serious neonatal infections.

Specimen Type

Vaginal/Rectal

Specimen Requirements

Bacterial Culture Transport Swab w/gel, Amies Transport swab, Eswab. Other transport systems also accepted.

Specimen Collection / Processing Instructions

Obtain a swab of the distal vagina and anorectum between 35-37 weeks gestation.

Stability

Ambient: 48 hours

Unacceptable Specimen Conditions

Frozen, delayed greater than 48 hours in transport

Limitations

A positive culture indicates colonization with Group B Streptococcus, which may or may not indicate infection.

Department (code)

Microbiology

Methodology

Culture

Estimated TAT

2-4 days

Testing Schedule

Mon-Sun

CPT Code(s)

87070

Reflex Conditions

None

Performing Lab

Incyte Diagnostics

LOINC Code(s)

72607-5

Additional Information

Colonization of the maternal tract is associated with colonization of infants and a risk of neonatal infections characterized by pneumonia, sepsis, and possible meningitis. GBS is also associated with postpartum infections in the mother. The CDC recommends screening of all pregnant women between 35 and 37 weeks gestation for the presence of GBS through the collection of a cervical, perianal, perirectal, or perineal specimen.