Chlamydia trachomatis Conjunctival Culture (Qualitative)
This test checks for the presence of *Chlamydia trachomatis*—a bacterium linked to eye infections like conjunctivitis (pink eye). It involves growing the organism from a swab of your conjunctiva.
["A culture helps confirm if a bacterial eye infection is caused by *Chlamydia* and guides treatment decisions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 556-1
- Short code
- Chlamydia Conjunct Cult
- Synonyms
- Chlamydia Conjunct Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- organism-specific-culture
- CPT
- 87110
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like red, itchy, or swollen eyes, discharge, or pain—especially if you suspect a bacterial infection. It’s also used in cases of recurrent conjunctivitis or after exposure to someone with a *Chlamydia* infection.
What to Expect During the Test
A sterile swab is gently collected from your conjunctival sac (the inner eyelid area). The swab is then sent to a lab to grow *Chlamydia* bacteria over several days. Results are qualitative (positive/negative) rather than quantifiable.
How Results Are Interpreted
A positive result means *Chlamydia* was detected in your eye. A negative result means it was not found. Follow-up may include additional tests or treatment based on your symptoms and provider’s assessment.
What It Means for Your Health
This test helps rule out or confirm a *Chlamydia* infection, which can be treated with antibiotics. Untreated infections may worsen symptoms or spread to other parts of the body. Early treatment is key to preventing complications.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Chlamydia conjunctival culture
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common symptoms of a positive result?
Results typically take 3–7 days, depending on lab processing times. If you’re experiencing urgent symptoms, your provider may recommend immediate treatment while awaiting results.
No, antibiotics should not be taken before the test as they may affect the results. If you’ve already taken antibiotics, inform your provider immediately.
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