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Streptococcus pneumoniae DNA, Sputum, Qualitative, Nucleic Acid Probe

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test looks for genetic material (DNA) from Streptococcus pneumoniae, the bacterium that most often causes bacterial pneumonia, in a sputum sample. A qualitative result indicates whether the organism's DNA is detected or not detected.

Quick summary

["A positive result suggests pneumococcal DNA is present in the sputum, supporting (but not alone confirming) a pneumococcal respiratory infection."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
108165-2
Short code
C pneum DNA Spec Ql NAA+n-prb
Synonyms
C pneum DNA Spec Ql NAA+n-prb
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
non-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

What This Test Detects

The test targets DNA specific to Streptococcus pneumoniae. Because it detects the organism's genetic material rather than living bacteria, it can signal the presence of pneumococcus even when the bacteria are difficult to grow in culture.

Why Sputum Is Used

Sputum is mucus coughed up from the lungs and airways, so it is the sample most directly reflecting a lower respiratory infection. Collecting a good-quality sputum specimen, rather than saliva, helps make the result meaningful.

Qualitative Results Explained

This is a qualitative (yes/no) test, so results are typically reported as detected or not detected rather than as a number. It does not measure how much bacteria are present or how severe an infection is.

How It Fits With Other Tests

Results are usually interpreted alongside symptoms, imaging, and cultures or other molecular tests. A single result should not be read in isolation, and detection of DNA does not always prove active infection because the organism can be carried without causing illness.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Pneumococcal DNA (Sputum)

Frequently asked questions

Does a detected result mean I definitely have pneumonia?
No. Detection shows pneumococcal DNA is present in the sample, which supports but does not by itself confirm an active infection. Your clinician interprets it with your symptoms, exam, and other test results.
Can the test tell how severe my infection is?
No. Because this is a qualitative test, it reports only whether DNA is detected, not the amount of bacteria or the severity of illness.
Does a not-detected result rule out pneumococcal infection?
Not necessarily. A poor-quality sample, recent antibiotics, or the organism being absent from the sampled area can all lead to a negative result, so clinical context still matters.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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