Chlamydia DNA Conjunctival Swab Nucleic Acid Probe Test
This test detects genetic material from *Chlamydia trachomatis*, a bacterium that can cause eye infections like conjunctivitis (pink eye). It helps confirm if you have an eye infection caused by this specific bacteria.
A simple test to check for a bacterial eye infection that may need treatment with antibiotics.
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 35710-3
- Short code
- Chlamydia DNA Conjunct Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- Chlamydia DNA Conjunct Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- 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
Understanding why this test matters can help you feel more confident about your care. This eye test gives your doctor valuable information about the health of your eyes, helping to detect problems early, guide treatment decisions, and protect your vision for the long term.
Eye infections caused by *Chlamydia trachomatis* can be painful and uncomfortable. This test helps doctors determine if your symptoms are due to this specific bacteria, which is important for choosing the right treatment. Early detection can prevent complications like vision problems or spread to others.
During the test, your eye doctor will examine your eyes using specialized instruments, usually while you sit comfortably with your chin resting on a support. The procedure is quick, generally painless, and typically takes only a few minutes for each eye.
A swab is gently placed into your conjunctival sac (the clear tissue covering the white part of your eye and inside the eyelids). The swab collects cells containing genetic material from the bacteria. The test then uses a probe to detect this genetic material, confirming if *Chlamydia* is present.
Preparing for the test is simple. You may be asked to remove your contact lenses, glasses, or eye makeup before the appointment. If your eyes will be dilated, plan for someone to drive you home, and bring a list of any medications or eye drops you currently use.
No special preparation is needed. You may experience mild discomfort or tearing during the swab, but it usually doesn’t cause pain. Avoid using eye drops or applying makeup to the affected eye before the test.
After the test, most people can return to their normal activities right away. If dilating drops were used, your vision may stay blurry and your eyes may be sensitive to light for several hours, so wearing sunglasses and arranging a ride home is a good idea.
After the test, you may experience mild redness, itching, or irritation, which usually resolves on its own. If you experience severe pain, increased redness, or discharge, contact your healthcare provider. Results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Chlamydia Eye Infection Test
Frequently asked questions
This test is crucial for diagnosing conjunctivitis caused by *Chlamydia trachomatis*, which can lead to serious eye infections if untreated. It helps differentiate bacterial infections from viral or allergic causes, guiding appropriate treatment with antibiotics.
Results are usually available within 24 to 48 hours, but this can vary depending on the lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will contact you once the results are ready.
No, avoid using eye drops, makeup, or applying anything to the affected eye before the test to ensure accurate results.
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