Asialoglycoprotein receptor antibodies (ASGPR)

Streptococcus Group A Antigens

Clinical significance

Bacteria of the genus Streptococcus include dozens of species, but only some are pathogenic to humans. They are classified into groups based on the antigenic structure of their cell wall components. Group A streptococci include Streptococcus pyogenes and certain strains of S. anginosus and S. constellatus.

Streptococcus pyogenes is a Gram-positive bacterium responsible for various inflammatory and purulent infections of the upper respiratory tract, middle ear, skin, fascia, and even the endocardium. It can also lead to septicemia and postpartum infections.

Detection of Group A streptococcal antigens may indicate an active infection but can also occur in asymptomatic carriers of the pathogen.

Patient preparation

Sample type: throat swab