Gonococcal Culture (with Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing)
This test checks for the presence of *Neisseria gonorrhoeae* bacteria in your sample and determines how your body’s infection responds to antibiotics.
["A gonococcal culture helps diagnose gonorrhea and guides treatment choices."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 583-5
- Short code
- Gp B Strep Gen lochia Ql Cult
- Synonyms
- Gp B Strep Gen lochia Ql Cult
- Category
- coagulation
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- organism-specific-culture
- 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 identifies *Neisseria gonorrhoeae*, the bacterium responsible for gonorrhea. It also evaluates antibiotic resistance patterns by growing the bacteria in a controlled environment and testing their sensitivity to common antibiotics.
How the Test Works
A sample (likely from urine, vaginal fluid, or throat swab) is collected and cultured on specific growth media. After incubation, bacterial growth is observed, and antibiotic susceptibility is determined through standard laboratory methods.
Why It Matters for You
This test is critical for confirming gonorrhea and ensuring appropriate antibiotic treatment. Resistance patterns help healthcare providers select the most effective medication to prevent complications or antibiotic resistance.
Common Specimen Types
The sample may come from urine, vaginal secretions, cervical swabs, or throat swabs, depending on your symptoms or clinical indication.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can cause infections in the genitals, rectum, or throat. Untreated gonorrhea may lead to serious health issues, including pelvic inflammatory disease (in women), infertility, or joint infections. Early diagnosis and treatment with the correct antibiotics are essential to prevent complications and reduce the risk of spreading the infection.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I have sex while waiting 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