How is scarlet fever (scarlatina) diagnosed?

General: Even with the characteristic symptoms of scarlet fever, it is important to confirm that the bacteria group A streptococcus is present by performing laboratory tests.

Physical exam: The doctor will examine the child's throat, tonsils (masses of tissue located on the back of the throat), tongue, and rash to identify symptoms of scarlet fever. Additionally, the doctor will feel the child's neck to determine whether the lymph nodes are enlarged and swollen.

Throat culture: The doctor will take a swab from the child's throat, and the results are determined in approximately two days. The material taken from the throat is left to grow in a warm place. The throat culture is an extremely accurate test for determining whether group A streptococcus is present.

Rapid antigen test: This test can be completed during the child's visit to the doctor's office, and the results are determined within 15 minutes. The doctor will use a cotton swab to take material from the back of the throat. This tests for group A streptococcus. The disadvantage is that this test is less accurate than a throat culture. If the rapid antigen test is negative, then the doctor will usually order the throat culture to determine that the diagnosis is accurate.

Rapid DNA test: This test uses DNA technology to identify strep bacteria from a throat swab in a day or less. Additionally, this test is as accurate as a throat culture with the advantage of receiving the results more rapidly.

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