Carbapenemase Detection by Rapid Immunochromatographic Test (Serum/Plasma)
This test checks for the presence of carbapenemase enzymes, which are bacteria-produced proteins that can make certain antibiotics ineffective. It helps identify bacteria resistant to powerful antibiotics like carbapenems.
A quick test to detect antibiotic resistance-causing enzymes in your blood.
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 101677-3
- Short code
- NDM Carbapenemase Islt Ql IA.rapid
- Synonyms
- NDM Carbapenemase Islt Ql IA.rapid
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia-rapid
- 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 Is Done
Healthcare providers may order this test if you have a serious infection, especially if you’ve been exposed to carbapenem antibiotics or if bacteria resistant to these drugs are suspected in your bloodstream. It helps guide treatment decisions to prevent the spread of antibiotic-resistant infections.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample (usually drawn from your arm) to check for carbapenemase enzymes. The results are typically available quickly, often within minutes, as it’s a rapid test.
How the Test Works
This test uses a rapid immunoassay method to detect carbapenemase proteins in your blood. A small sample of serum or plasma is applied to a test strip, and a visual result appears indicating whether the enzymes are present or not.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means your blood contains carbapenemase enzymes, suggesting bacteria resistant to carbapenem antibiotics may be present. A negative result means no such enzymes were detected, but further testing may still be needed to confirm infection and treatment.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Carbapenemase-producing bacteria are a major public health concern because they can cause difficult-to-treat infections. Detecting these enzymes helps healthcare providers choose the most effective antibiotics early, reducing the risk of treatment failure and spreading antibiotic resistance in hospitals and communities.
Short name
Carbapenemase Screen (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
Will I need to take any special steps if my test is positive?
How long does it take to get my results?
Can I eat or drink before 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