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Chlamydia trachomatis, Tracheal Specimen — Test Without Internal Control

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

A laboratory test that looks for Chlamydia trachomatis, a sexually transmitted bacterium, in a specimen collected from the trachea.

Quick summary

["A positive result can indicate Chlamydia trachomatis infection in the lower respiratory tract."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
87921-3
Short code
CT Trachea WO contr
Synonyms
CT Trachea WO contr
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ct
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 is this test?

This test checks a tracheal specimen for Chlamydia trachomatis, a bacterium that can infect the reproductive tract and other organs. The laboratory reports whether the organism was detected in the sample.

Why might I need this test?

It may be ordered when symptoms suggest a lower respiratory tract infection, particularly in someone who has been exposed to chlamydia. Testing can help guide antibiotic treatment and prevent spread of the infection.

How is the test performed?

A clinician or laboratory professional collects a respiratory specimen from the trachea. The laboratory then examines it for genetic material or other laboratory evidence of Chlamydia trachomatis.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's instructions about specimen collection. The test may be performed on a sample obtained with a scope or another collection method, so preparation depends on the procedure planned by your care team.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A positive result indicates that Chlamydia trachomatis was detected in the tracheal specimen and may explain the respiratory symptoms. A negative result means the organism was not detected, but it does not completely exclude infection. Because this test does not use an internal control, the laboratory should confirm that the specimen was adequate and that the result is valid.

Short name

Chlamydia trachomatis, Tracheal Specimen

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
It means Chlamydia trachomatis was detected in the tracheal specimen. Your clinician can recommend treatment and discuss screening or follow-up for other affected sites.
Can this test rule out chlamydia completely?
No. A negative result means the bacterium was not detected in this specimen, but infection may still be present elsewhere or may not be detected by the sample.
Does the specimen need to come from the trachea?
Yes. This test is intended for a tracheal respiratory specimen, which is usually collected by a qualified healthcare professional.
  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