Pneumococcal Nucleic Acid Detection in Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid by Qualitative Targeted qPCR Probe
This test checks for genetic material from *Streptococcus pneumoniae* (pneumococcus) in your lung fluid, obtained via a bronchoscopy. It helps diagnose infections caused by this bacterium, which can lead to serious lung conditions like pneumonia.
["This test helps confirm if a lung infection is caused by pneumococcus, guiding treatment decisions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 88546-7
- Short code
- C pneum DNA Aspirate Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- C pneum DNA Aspirate 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
- 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 of lung infection—such as cough, fever, or difficulty breathing—and suspect *Streptococcus pneumoniae* as the cause. It’s particularly useful in patients with weakened immune systems, chronic lung diseases, or those who have recently had a procedure like a bronchoscopy.
How the Test Works
A small sample of your lung fluid is collected during a bronchoscopy. The fluid is then analyzed using a specialized DNA detection method (qualitative PCR) to identify genetic material from *Streptococcus pneumoniae*. This method is highly sensitive and specific for this bacterium.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed unless instructed by your healthcare provider. You may be asked to stop certain medications (like antibiotics) that could affect test results, but this depends on your overall health and current treatment plan.
What to Expect During the Test
The procedure involves inserting a thin tube through your nose or mouth into your airways to collect fluid from your lungs. You may feel discomfort or coughing, but it’s generally brief and done under sedation if needed. Recovery is usually quick, with minimal downtime.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result confirms the presence of *Streptococcus pneumoniae* DNA in your lung fluid, strongly suggesting a pneumococcal infection. This can guide treatment with antibiotics targeted specifically at pneumococcus, improving outcomes and reducing complications. A negative result means the bacterium is not detected in this sample, but other causes of lung infection should still be considered.
Short name
Pneumococcal DNA in Lung Fluid (Qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
How long will I need to wait for results?
What if I have a negative result but still feel unwell?
Can I get this test at home?
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