Bacterial rrs Gene Drug Resistance Test: What Patients Need to Know About Antibiotic Resistance
This test detects genetic mutations in bacteria that cause antibiotic resistance.
{"Identifies genetic changes that make bacteria resistant to certain antibiotics","Helps doctors choose the most effective medication for treatment","Uses a molecular technique to analyze bacterial DNA","Commonly used for tuberculosis and other serious bacterial infections"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 94062-7
- Short code
- RRSDR
- Synonyms
- Bacterial rrs drug res mut Islt/Spm
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof container or appropriate transport medium as specified by the performing laboratory
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- molgen
- CPT
- 87153
- SNOMED
- 434821002
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of serum or as specified by the performing laboratory's molecular assay requirements
- Stability
- Stable for 24 hours at 2-8°C; for longer delays, freeze at -70°C or below. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What is the bacterial rrs gene drug resistance test?
The bacterial rrs gene drug resistance test looks for specific changes, called mutations, in a gene known as rrs that is found in bacteria. This gene is part of the bacteria's genetic material and plays an important role in helping bacteria make the proteins they need to survive and grow. When certain mutations occur in this gene, the bacteria can become resistant to specific antibiotics, which means those medications may no longer work to kill the infection or help you recover.
How is the bacterial rrs gene drug resistance test performed?
A sample of your blood (serum) is collected and sent to a laboratory. Scientists use special molecular techniques to extract and analyze the bacterial DNA. They look for known mutations in the rrs gene that are linked to antibiotic resistance. The test can identify whether the bacteria causing your infection have these resistance mutations.
Why is the bacterial rrs gene drug resistance test important for your treatment and care?
This test is crucial because it helps doctors prescribe the right antibiotics from the start. Instead of trying multiple medications, your doctor can choose an antibiotic that will actually work against your infection. This is especially important for serious infections like tuberculosis, where incorrect treatment can lead to complications and drug-resistant bacteria.
Reference range
Results reported as Detected, Not Detected, or specific mutation identified with associated drug resistance interpretationN/A
No special patient preparation required. Sample collection should be performed prior to initiation of antimicrobial therapy when clinically feasible to avoid false-negative results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
The rrs gene mutations are most commonly associated with resistance to aminoglycoside antibiotics (such as amikacin, kanamycin, and streptomycin). These antibiotics are often used to treat tuberculosis and other serious bacterial infections. Detecting these mutations helps guide appropriate antibiotic selection and prevents ineffective treatment. The test is particularly valuable in cases of treatment failure or suspected drug-resistant infections.
Frequently asked questions
Does this test hurt?
How long does it take to get results?
What do the results mean?
Do I need to prepare for this test?
Sources
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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