Streptococcus group B (GBS) detection by urine antigen immunoassay (qualitative)
This test checks for the presence of Streptococcus group B bacteria antigens in your urine, which can help identify if you may have an infection, especially in certain high-risk situations.
["A urine GBS antigen test helps detect potential infections early, particularly in pregnant individuals or those with urinary tract concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 74740-2
- Short code
- Deprecated Streptococcus sp tuf Bld Pos Ql Prb Mag
- Synonyms
- Deprecated Streptococcus sp tuf Bld Pos Ql Prb Mag
- Category
- coagulation
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-mag-capture
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Healthcare providers may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, chills, or discomfort during urination, or if you are at higher risk for urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by group B Streptococcus. It can also be used during pregnancy to assess for colonization in the urinary tract.
What to Expect Before the Test
You may be asked to collect a clean urine sample in a sterile container. Follow any specific instructions your healthcare provider gives you to ensure the sample is accurate. No special preparation is typically needed.
What the Test Results Mean
A positive result indicates the presence of Streptococcus group B antigens in your urine, which may suggest an infection. A negative result means no detectable antigens were found in this sample. Results should be interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Common Uses and Risks
This test is primarily used to identify potential urinary tract infections caused by group B Streptococcus. While rare, false positives or negatives can occur, so results should be reviewed by a healthcare professional.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Urine GBS Antigen Test
Frequently asked questions
What questions do patients typically ask about this test?
How accurate is this test?
Can I take anything before this 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