throat culture

A throat culture is a medical test used to identify infections in the throat, such as strep throat, caused by bacteria or viruses. During the procedure, a healthcare provider swabs the back of the throat with a cotton stick to collect samples of mucus. The sample is then sent to a lab where it is grown on a special medium to check for the presence of harmful microorganisms. This test helps doctors determine the right treatment, such as antibiotics, if a bacterial infection is detected. It's a quick and essential tool in diagnosing throat-related illnesses.