The Gram-positive bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes can cause severe infections such as pharyngitis, impetigo and meningitis. If left untreated, these infections can lead to complications such as rheumatic fever. The rapid Strep A test detects Strep A antigens in throat swabs within five minutes, so preliminary results can be obtained quickly. However, a negative result does not rule out infection and the test is intended for professional use only, not for self-testing.