Neisseria gonorrhoeae Nucleic Acid Detection by Conjunctival Swab Probe
This test checks for the presence of gonorrhea bacteria in your eye using a swab probe. It helps diagnose infections that may require treatment.
["A quick, accurate way to detect gonorrhea in the eye that may need antibiotics."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 35735-0
- Short code
- N gonorrhoea DNA Conjunct Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- N gonorrhoea DNA Conjunct 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
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like redness, discharge, or pain in your eye, or if you’ve been exposed to gonorrhea. It’s also used for screening in certain high-risk groups, such as sexually active individuals or those with multiple sexual partners.
What to Expect During the Test
You’ll likely have a small swab gently placed in your eye to collect a sample. The process is quick and painless, similar to a throat swab. No special preparation is needed, but avoid applying eye drops or ointments before testing.
How the Results Are Interpreted
Results are typically available within hours or days, depending on lab processing. A positive result means gonorrhea bacteria are present and treatment may be needed. A negative result means no bacteria were detected in this sample, but other tests or follow-ups may still be recommended.
What the Results Mean for Your Health
A positive result requires immediate treatment with antibiotics to prevent complications like blindness or spread of infection. A negative result doesn’t guarantee you’re free of gonorrhea—retesting may be advised if symptoms persist or exposure is ongoing.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Gonorrhea in the eye can cause severe inflammation, leading to vision problems or permanent damage if untreated. Early detection through this test allows for prompt treatment to prevent complications and reduce the risk of spreading the infection to others.
Short name
Gonorrhea Eye Infection Test
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get the results of this test?
Is there any pain or discomfort during the test?
Can I still use contact lenses or wear makeup on the day of the 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