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Pneumococcal Nucleic Acid Detection (Serum/Plasma Probe)

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

This test checks for genetic material from *Streptococcus pneumoniae* (pneumococcus) bacteria in your blood or plasma, often used to diagnose infections like pneumonia or bacteremia.

Quick summary

["Helps confirm if pneumococcal bacteria are present in your bloodstream, guiding treatment decisions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
88720-8
Short code
M pneumo DNA Nph Ql NAA+probe
Synonyms
M pneumo DNA Nph Ql NAA+probe
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
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 detects genetic fragments (nucleic acids) from *Streptococcus pneumoniae*, a common cause of pneumonia, meningitis, and blood infections. It’s not a traditional blood count or antibody test but identifies bacterial DNA directly, which can appear in the blood early in infection.

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is taken and analyzed using a molecular probe (nucleic acid amplification technique). If pneumococcal DNA is present, the test will detect it, helping doctors confirm or rule out pneumococcal infection.

When You Might Need This Test

This test is typically ordered if you have symptoms like high fever, chest pain, confusion, or rapid breathing—especially if you’ve been exposed to someone with pneumonia or have weakened immunity.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

Symptoms like persistent cough, difficulty breathing, or unexplained fever may prompt this test, particularly in high-risk groups (e.g., elderly, immunocompromised individuals).

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Positive results strongly suggest a pneumococcal infection and may lead to immediate treatment with antibiotics targeting pneumococcus. Negative results can help rule out this specific cause of illness, allowing doctors to focus on other potential infections or conditions.

Short name

Pneumococcal DNA Test

Frequently asked questions

Why was I asked to take this test?
Your doctor may have recommended this test if you’ve shown signs of a serious bacterial infection, like pneumonia or blood poisoning, or if you’ve been exposed to someone with pneumococcal disease. It helps pinpoint the exact cause of your symptoms for better treatment planning.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means the test found genetic material from *Streptococcus pneumoniae* in your blood or plasma, strongly suggesting you have an active pneumococcal infection. Your doctor will work with you to determine the best course of treatment, often including antibiotics.
What if my test is negative?
A negative result means the test did not detect pneumococcal DNA in your sample. This doesn’t rule out other infections or conditions, so your doctor may recommend additional tests or follow-up care based on your symptoms and medical history.
  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