Carbapenemase Detection (Qualitative, by Immunochromatographic Assay)
This test checks for the presence of carbapenemase enzymes in a bacterial sample. Carbapenemases are enzymes produced by certain bacteria that can break down carbapenem antibiotics, making them ineffective against those bacteria.
["Helps determine if bacteria may resist common antibiotics used to treat infections."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 86930-5
- Short code
- CARBAP
- Synonyms
- Carbapenemase Islt Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Pure bacterial isolate on appropriate solid media (e.g., blood agar, Mueller-Hinton agar) or in transport medium; sealed transport tube or culture plate
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Carba NP test, Modified Hodge Test, or Molecular (PCR) detection of carbapenemase genes (e.g., blaKPC, blaNDM, blaVIM, blaIMP, blaOXA-48)
- CPT
- 87185
- SNOMED
- 122455009
- Specimen volume
- Sufficient growth of a pure bacterial isolate (typically a 1 μL loopful of confluent growth from an 18-24 hour culture)
- Stability
- Isolate viable for up to 7 days on appropriate solid media at 2-8°C; molecular testing may require fresh growth (≤24 hours old) for optimal results
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your doctor may order this test if you have a bacterial infection that doesn’t respond to standard carbapenem antibiotics, or if you’ve been exposed to bacteria known to produce carbapenemases. It’s also used in settings like hospitals or clinics where infections with resistant bacteria are common.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll likely provide a sample of your urine, blood, or other bodily fluid (like cerebrospinal fluid) depending on the suspected infection site. The test involves a simple dipstick or swab method that detects the enzyme in the sample.
What the Test Results Mean
A positive result means the bacteria in your sample produce carbapenemases, which may require different treatment options. A negative result suggests the bacteria do not produce these enzymes, but further testing may still be needed to guide treatment.
Common Causes for Testing
This test is often performed in cases of suspected infections caused by bacteria like *Klebsiella*, *Acinetobacter*, or *Pseudomonas*, which are known to produce carbapenemases. It’s particularly important in patients with severe infections or those who have been exposed to carbapenem antibiotics.
Reference range
Negative (Carbapenemase not detected)N/A
No special patient preparation required. Specimen is collected from a bacterial isolate, not directly from the patient.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Carbapenemase Screen (Qual)
Frequently asked questions
What Are Carbapenemases?
How Does This Test Differ from Other Antibacterial Tests?
Can This Test Be Done on Any Sample?
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