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Abaumanniidnalowerrespqlnaaprobe

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test detects the presence of Acinetobacter baumannii bacteria DNA in respiratory samples using advanced nucleic acid amplification technology to help diagnose respiratory infections.

Quick summary

{"Detects Acinetobacter baumannii bacteria DNA in lower respiratory samples","Uses Nucleic Acid Amplification (NAA) technology for highly sensitive detection","Helps diagnose difficult-to-treat hospital-acquired infections","Results are typically available within 24-48 hours","Important for patients with pneumonia, especially in ICU settings"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
94380-3
Short code
AB DNA Respiratory NAA
Synonyms
A baumannii DNA Lower resp Ql NAA+probe
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Sterile, leak-proof container for sputum; sterile bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) collection container or tracheal aspirate container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
0–120 years
Method
probe-amp-tar
CPT
87641
SNOMED
40930000
Specimen volume
Sputum: 1-5 mL; Bronchoalveolar lavage: 5-10 mL; Tracheal aspirate: 1-3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2-4 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 24-48 hours; Frozen (-20°C or below): 7 days. Process as soon as possible for optimal results.
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Acinetobacter baumannii DNA test is a molecular diagnostic test that detects the genetic material (DNA) of Acinetobacter baumannii bacteria in samples collected from the lower respiratory tract. This test uses Nucleic Acid Amplification (NAA) with probe detection, which is a highly sensitive technique that can identify even small amounts of bacterial DNA.

Why is this test performed?

This test is primarily used to diagnose infections caused by Acinetobacter baumannii, a type of bacteria that commonly causes healthcare-associated infections, particularly pneumonia in patients who are on ventilators or have been in intensive care units. It is especially important because Acinetobacter baumannii has become resistant to many antibiotics, making accurate and rapid diagnosis crucial for effective treatment.

How is the sample collected?

The test requires a sample from your lower respiratory tract. This may include sputum (coughed-up mucus), bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL fluid collected during bronchoscopy), or endotracheal aspirate. Your healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate collection method based on your condition.

What do the results mean?

A positive result means that Acinetobacter baumannii DNA was detected in your respiratory sample, indicating an active infection. A negative result suggests that no Acinetobacter baumannii DNA was found, though this does not completely rule out infection. Your doctor will interpret these results together with your symptoms, other test results, and clinical findings.

Reference range

Not detected - Negative for Acinetobacter baumannii DNAN/A

Specimen: serum

No fasting required. Patient should avoid eating, drinking, smoking, or brushing teeth before collection of sputum specimen. For bronchoalveolar lavage, patient should follow pre-procedure instructions provided by healthcare facility.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Is this test painful?
The test itself is performed on a sample already collected by your healthcare provider. The collection method (sputum, BAL, or endotracheal aspirate) may cause some discomfort, but it is generally well-tolerated.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 24-48 hours, which is faster than traditional culture methods that can take several days.
Do I need to fast before this test?
No fasting is required for this test. However, follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider regarding sample collection.
What happens if the test is positive?
If positive, your healthcare team will determine the most appropriate treatment based on the infection type and antibiotic susceptibility patterns. Due to frequent antibiotic resistance, targeted therapy is essential.
Can this infection spread to others?
Acinetobacter baumannii can spread through person-to-person contact, especially in healthcare settings. Healthcare workers follow strict infection control precautions to prevent transmission.
  1. 1
    CDC - Acinetobacter baumannii InfectionsSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic Laboratories - Test CatalogSource
  3. 3
    IDSA Guidelines for Healthcare-Associated PneumoniaSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy