Scarlet fever lab test: what to expect

A clinician may look for a rough rash, inspect the throat, and ask about fever, sore throat, swollen glands, and recent illness. Scarlet fever is associated with streptococcal infection, so a throat swab may be considered. Read more about Strep Throat.

A test result is interpreted with the examination rather than in isolation. A rash can have causes unrelated to scarlet fever, and a negative or unclear result may lead to further clinical review depending on symptoms.

Write down when the fever, throat symptoms, and rash began, where the rash appeared first, and whether swallowing or drinking is difficult. Tell the clinician about allergies, current medicines, and any previous reaction to antibiotics.

Follow instructions for any throat swab and ask when results should be available. If scarlet fever is diagnosed, use prescribed Antibiotic Treatment as instructed. Do not start leftover antibiotics or stop a prescribed course without speaking with the prescriber.

Arrange an assessment for a new rough rash with fever or sore throat, particularly when symptoms are worsening or a child is affected. Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing, severe trouble swallowing, dehydration, confusion, facial swelling, or a rapidly worsening skin reaction.

Contact a clinician promptly if symptoms continue despite the advised plan, a medicine causes a new reaction, or the person cannot take fluids or prescribed treatment. Fever and swollen glands may be relevant details to report.

Ask which test is being used, what the sample involves, when to expect the result, what a negative result means in this situation, and whether close contacts need advice.