Bacillus cereus group DNA detection by qualitative nucleic acid amplification probe test
This test checks for genetic material from *Bacillus cereus*, a bacteria that can cause food poisoning. It helps identify if you’ve been exposed to this organism in food or water.
["A simple test to detect potential foodborne bacterial exposure, not a diagnosis of illness alone."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 92788-9
- Short code
- BCERDNA
- Synonyms
- B cereus group DNA Bld Pos Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Positive blood culture bottle (aerobic or anaerobic) submitted for pathogen identification
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 87153
- SNOMED
- 441829007
- Specimen volume
- Sample drawn from positive blood culture bottle; no additional volume required
- Stability
- Test should be performed as soon as possible after the blood culture bottle flags positive. If delayed, store at 2-8°C and test within 24 hours.
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 1–4 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test looks for specific DNA sequences unique to *Bacillus cereus* group bacteria. If present, it suggests exposure but does not confirm infection or illness. Results are qualitative (positive or negative) and based on a molecular probe that detects genetic material.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’ve had symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain after consuming potentially contaminated food, or if you’re investigating a foodborne illness outbreak.
How the Test Works
A small sample of blood, stool, or other bodily fluid is collected and analyzed using a nucleic acid amplification technique. The probe binds to *Bacillus cereus* DNA if it’s present, triggering a detectable signal.
What the Results Mean
A positive result indicates the presence of *Bacillus cereus* DNA in your sample, suggesting exposure. A negative result means no detectable DNA was found. This test alone does not diagnose illness but may guide further testing or investigation.
Reference range
Negative (Bacillus cereus group DNA not detected)N/A
No special patient preparation required. Sample is collected from a positive blood culture bottle flagged by a continuous-monitoring blood culture system.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Bacillus cereus Group DNA Test (Qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
Could I get sick from this test result alone?
What should I do if my test is positive?
Is this test the same as a stool culture?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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