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Neisseria gonorrhoeae Culture (with Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing)

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

This test checks for the presence of *Neisseria gonorrhoeae*, the bacteria responsible for gonorrhea, and may also assess how well antibiotics work against it.

Quick summary

["Helps diagnose gonorrhea and guide antibiotic treatment choices."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
688-2
Short code
N gonorrhoea Cvx Ql Cult
Synonyms
N gonorrhoea Cvx Ql Cult
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
organism-specific-culture
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 culture identifies *Neisseria gonorrhoeae* bacteria from a sample of your body fluid (often collected from the urethra, cervix, or throat). If bacteria are found, further testing determines their sensitivity to antibiotics to ensure effective treatment.

How the Test Works

A sterile swab or fluid sample is sent to a lab, where it’s grown on special media to see if gonorrhea bacteria multiply. Results typically take 2–5 days, and antibiotic susceptibility testing may extend this period.

Why It’s Done

Doctors order this test to confirm gonorrhea infection, especially if symptoms like discharge, pain during urination, or genital sores are present. It’s also used to monitor antibiotic resistance trends in gonorrhea.

Preparation

No special preparation is needed. You may be asked to avoid antibiotics or sexual contact for a few days before testing, depending on your doctor’s instructions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Positive results confirm gonorrhea and guide treatment choices. Antibiotic resistance patterns help healthcare providers select the most effective drugs. Untreated gonorrhea can lead to serious complications, including pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, or spread to other parts of the body.

Short name

Gonococcal Culture

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results typically arrive within 2–5 business days, depending on lab processing times. If antibiotic susceptibility testing is included, it may take longer.
What if I have symptoms but the test is negative?
Symptoms like discharge, pain, or sores can sometimes be caused by other infections (e.g., chlamydia, yeast infections). Your doctor may recommend retesting or additional tests to rule out other causes.
Can I still have gonorrhea if I don’t have symptoms?
Yes, gonorrhea can be asymptomatic (no symptoms). That’s why testing is especially important for sexually active individuals, especially those with multiple partners or recent exposure.
  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