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Pneumococcal Nucleic Acid Detection (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test checks for genetic material from *Streptococcus pneumoniae* (pneumococcus), a common bacterial cause of pneumonia, meningitis, or other infections.

Quick summary

["Detects infection risk by identifying bacterial DNA in your blood or fluid samples."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
82177-7
Short code
M pneumo DNA Nph Ql NAA+n-prb
Synonyms
M pneumo DNA Nph 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

What This Test Measures

The test looks for fragments of *Streptococcus pneumoniae* DNA in your serum or plasma. These fragments can appear when the bacteria are present in your body, often indicating an active infection. This is not a traditional antibody test, so it may detect infections earlier than some other methods.

Why It’s Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, cough, confusion, or signs of infection (e.g., in children with ear infections, adults with pneumonia, or those with weakened immune systems). It can also help confirm a diagnosis in unclear cases.

Sample Collection

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum or plasma for testing. This test does not require fasting.

What to Expect

You may feel slight discomfort from the needle, but it usually goes away quickly. The test itself takes a few minutes. Results are typically available within 24–48 hours, depending on lab processing.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Positive results strongly suggest recent *Streptococcus pneumoniae* infection and may guide treatment decisions, such as starting antibiotics. Negative results mean no detectable bacterial DNA in this sample, but infection could still be present elsewhere in your body or may resolve before retesting.

Frequently asked questions

How soon will I get my results?
Results are usually ready within 24–48 hours, but timing depends on your lab’s schedule. Ask your provider for an estimated timeline during your appointment.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
No special preparation is needed. You can eat, drink water, or take medications as usual.
Is this test painful?
You may feel a slight pinch when the needle is inserted, but it’s usually brief. Most people tolerate it well. If you’re uncomfortable, let your healthcare provider know.
  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