Pneumococcal Nucleic Acid Detection in Urine (by Probe)
This test checks for genetic material from *Streptococcus pneumoniae* (pneumococcus) bacteria in your urine, helping identify infections caused by this common cause of pneumonia, meningitis, or bloodstream infections.
["A simple urine test to detect pneumococcal bacteria linked to serious infections."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 111564-1
- Short code
- M pneumo DNA BAS Ql NAA+n-prb
- Synonyms
- M pneumo DNA BAS Ql NAA+n-prb
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- non-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
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, chest pain, confusion, or difficulty breathing—especially if you’ve been exposed to someone with pneumonia or have a weakened immune system. It’s also used in certain hospital settings to guide treatment for suspected bacterial infections.
How the Test Works
The test uses a probe to detect genetic material (nucleic acid) from *Streptococcus pneumoniae* in your urine. This method is highly sensitive and specific, meaning it can quickly identify the bacteria without growing them in a lab.
Sample Collection and Preparation
You’ll provide a clean urine sample (midstream or catheterized) in a sterile container. The sample is then processed in a specialized machine that analyzes the genetic material for pneumococcal presence.
What to Expect During the Test
The test is quick and painless. Results are typically available within hours or a few days, depending on lab processing. If positive, it confirms a pneumococcal infection, which can be treated with antibiotics.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Urine Pneumococcal NAAT
Frequently asked questions
A positive result indicates a current or recent infection by *Streptococcus pneumoniae*, which can cause severe illnesses like pneumonia, sepsis, or meningitis. Early detection helps guide appropriate antibiotic treatment and reduces complications.
A positive result means your urine contains genetic material from *Streptococcus pneumoniae*, strongly suggesting an active infection. This is a key finding for treating the infection promptly with antibiotics tailored to the bacteria.
No, this test specifically detects only *Streptococcus pneumoniae* (pneumococcal) bacteria. It does not identify other types of bacteria or viruses.
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