Neisseria meningitidis DNA in Stool by Probe-Based Detection
This test checks for genetic material from *Neisseria meningitidis* bacteria in your stool using a specialized probe. It helps identify if you may have been exposed to this bacteria, which can cause serious infections like meningitis.
["A simple stool test to detect bacterial DNA that may indicate recent exposure to meningococcal bacteria."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 93399-4
- Short code
- F. necrophorum DNA Bld Pos Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- F. necrophorum DNA Bld Pos Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- 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
What This Test Measures
The test detects fragments of *Neisseria meningitidis* DNA in your stool sample. This DNA is not the same as active infection—it only confirms if the bacteria were present in your system at some point. The probe method is highly sensitive and specific for this pathogen.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you’ve had recent contact with someone who has meningococcal disease, if you’re traveling to areas with higher infection rates, or if you’re part of a group at increased risk (e.g., military recruits, college students). It’s also used in outbreak investigations.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a stool sample, typically collected in a provided container. The test is usually done in a lab and may take a few days to complete.
What the Results Mean
Positive results indicate the presence of *Neisseria meningitidis* DNA in your stool, suggesting exposure. However, this does not confirm active infection—you may not have symptoms or illness. Negative results mean no detectable DNA was found.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Meningococcal DNA Stool Test
Frequently asked questions
This test is primarily used for surveillance, outbreak detection, or assessing exposure risk rather than diagnosing active disease. If symptoms like fever, headache, or rash develop after exposure, seek medical attention promptly.
If you’ve had close contact with someone diagnosed with meningococcal disease, you may be advised to take preventive antibiotics.
How long will I need to wait for results?
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