Rapid Strep Test (Continued) The rapid test uses a sandwich…
Rapid Strep Test (Continued) The rapid test uses a sandwich immunoassay to detect group A streptococcal antigens. The test cassette contains a membrane strip that has been coated with anti-Strep A antibodies. If the specimen being tested contains Group A Strep bacteria, the Strep A antigens extracted from the throat swab will bind to the antibodies. The antigen-antibody complex then binds with a second antibody that is conjugated with a chromogen, producing a colored line. Thus, a colored line at the test line region of the cassette indicates the sample is positive for Group A Strep. The picture below shows the results from a rapid strep test. Please note that the test (T) line is just an indicator that the lateral flow assay is actually working to bring antigens up the strip. Based on the following rapid strep test result, how would you diagnose the patient?
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