rapid strep test

The rapid strep test (RST), or rapid antigen detection test (RADT), is a rapid diagnostic test that is widely used in clinics to assist in the diagnosis of bacterial pharyngitis caused by group A streptococci (GAS), sometimes termed strep throat. There are currently several types of rapid strep test in use, each employing a distinct technology. However, they all work by detecting the presence of GAS in the throat of a patient by responding to GAS-specific antigens on a throat swab.