The bacteria most likely to cause strep throat and bacterial sore throats in general are called Group A beta-hemolytic Streptococcus pyogenes (GABHS). This test is a highly reliable way to diagnose strep throat because it has a sensitivity of 90% to 95%.

Is Streptococcus alpha or beta hemolytic?

Streptococcus pneumoniae and a group of oral streptococci (Streptococcus viridans or viridans streptococci) display alpha-hemolysis. Alpha-hemolysis is also termed incomplete hemolysis or partial hemolysis because the cell membranes of the red blood cells are left intact.

Is strep B beta hemolytic?

Group B streptococci (GBS) are β-hemolytic, Gram-positive bacteria that are a leading cause of neonatal infections. Group B streptococci also cause infections in adults including the elderly, diabetic, and immunocompromised. Invasive GBS isolates are characteristically β-hemolytic.