Evaluation of the lyra direct strep assay to detect group A streptococcus and group C and G beta-hemolytic streptococcus from pharyngeal specimens

Abstract

The Lyra Direct strep assay was compared to culture for its ability to detect Streptococcus group A and β-hemolytic groups C/G using rapid antigen-negative pharyngeal specimens (n=161). The Lyra assay correctly detected all β-hemolytic streptococci (group A, n=19; group C/G, n=5). In batch mode, the Lyra assay reduced intralaboratory turnaround time by 60% (18.1 h versus 45.0 h) but increased hands-on time by 96% (3 min 16 s versus 1 min 40 s per specimen).