Mycoplasma pneumoniae DNA Detection by Nucleic Acid Probe (Serum/Plasma)
This test checks for genetic material from *Mycoplasma pneumoniae*, a common bacteria that sometimes causes respiratory infections like pneumonia or bronchitis. It helps determine if you’ve been exposed to this bacteria.
["This test may help diagnose infections caused by *Mycoplasma pneumoniae* in your bloodstream."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 46111-1
- Short code
- Mycoplasma DNA Fld Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- Mycoplasma DNA Fld Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- plasma
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
- 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
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like persistent cough, fever, or chest pain that don’t improve with usual antibiotics. It’s also used in cases where other tests for infections aren’t clear-cut.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample (either serum or plasma) via a simple venipuncture. The sample is then tested for genetic material specific to *Mycoplasma pneumoniae*.
What the Test Results Mean
A positive result means the test detected genetic material from *Mycoplasma pneumoniae*, suggesting recent exposure or infection. A negative result means the bacteria’s genetic material wasn’t found in your sample.
Possible Limitations
This test can’t distinguish between active infection and past exposure. It may also give false positives or negatives, especially if you’ve recently taken antibiotics or have other infections.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a tricky bacteria because it doesn’t grow in traditional culture labs. This test provides a direct, sensitive way to detect it quickly, which is especially useful in diagnosing atypical pneumonia or respiratory infections in adults. Early identification can guide treatment decisions, such as targeting antibiotics that work against this specific bacteria.
Short name
Mycoplasma pneumoniae DNA Test
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean for my health?
Can this test be affected by antibiotics I’ve taken?
How long does it take to get results from this test?
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