Pneumococcal Antigen in Urine (Qualitative)
This test detects the presence of pneumococcal bacteria in your urine, which can help diagnose serious infections like pneumonia or bloodstream infections caused by *Streptococcus pneumoniae*.
["A positive result may indicate a bacterial infection needing urgent medical attention."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 31778-4
- Short code
- C pneum Ag Spec Ql
- Synonyms
- C pneum Ag Spec Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like high fever, chills, confusion, or difficulty breathing, especially after recent exposure to pneumonia or if you have a weakened immune system. It can also be used in certain hospital settings to guide treatment decisions for suspected pneumococcal infections.
What to Expect During the Test
The test involves collecting a small urine sample. No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications or foods that could interfere with results. Results are typically available within hours.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means the test detected pneumococcal antigens in your urine, suggesting an active infection. A negative result means no detectable antigens were found, but this does not rule out infection entirely. Follow-up testing or medical evaluation may still be needed.
Possible Side Effects or Risks
There are usually no side effects from this test. However, if you experience pain or irritation during urination afterward, it may be due to normal bladder activity and should resolve quickly.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Urine Pneumococcal Antigen Test
Frequently asked questions
This test is particularly useful for diagnosing pneumococcal infections in patients who may not have classic symptoms or when other tests are unavailable. It helps doctors quickly identify and treat infections that could become life-threatening, especially in high-risk groups like elderly adults, young children, or those with chronic health conditions.
FAQ 1
FAQ 2: Can I drink before the test?
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