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Enterococcus DNA Detection by PCR (Qualitative)

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

This test checks for the presence of genetic material from *Enterococcus* bacteria, a type of bacteria that can sometimes cause infections.

Quick summary

["Helps identify possible bacterial infections linked to *Enterococcus* in your body."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
49613-3
Short code
Deprecated Enterococcus DNA XXX PCR
Synonyms
Deprecated Enterococcus DNA XXX PCR
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

What This Test Measures

The test detects genetic material (DNA) from *Enterococcus* bacteria using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). PCR is a method that amplifies tiny amounts of DNA to make it detectable. This test is not used to measure bacterial counts but to confirm if the bacteria are present in your sample.

How the Test Works

A small sample of your bodily fluid (such as blood, urine, or other specimens) is collected and analyzed. The PCR process copies the DNA from *Enterococcus* if it is present, allowing for detection even in low concentrations.

Common Uses

This test is often used to diagnose infections caused by *Enterococcus* bacteria, such as urinary tract infections, bloodstream infections, or infections in wounds or surgical sites.

Sample Collection

The type of sample collected depends on the suspected infection site. For example, urine samples may be used for urinary tract infections, while blood samples may be used for bloodstream infections.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Enterococcus DNA PCR

Frequently asked questions

If the test is positive, it indicates that genetic material from *Enterococcus* bacteria is present in your sample, suggesting an infection. This can guide treatment decisions, such as starting appropriate antibiotics.
A positive result means the presence of *Enterococcus* DNA, which may require further medical evaluation to confirm the infection and determine the best treatment plan.
A negative result means no detectable *Enterococcus* DNA in the sample, which may mean the infection is not caused by this type of bacteria or that the bacteria are not present in the sample collected.
This test does not provide information about the severity of the infection or the specific strain of *Enterococcus*. Additional tests may be needed to determine the best course of treatment.
How long will it take to get my results?
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on the lab’s processing schedule. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you and explain next steps.
  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