Neisseria gonorrhoeae Nucleic Acid Detection by Urine Probe
This test checks for the presence of genetic material from *Neisseria gonorrhoeae*, the bacteria responsible for gonorrhea, using a urine sample. It helps confirm infection quickly and guides treatment decisions.
["A fast, urine-based test to detect gonorrhea infection without waiting for culture results."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 21415-5
- Short code
- N gonorrhoea DNA Urth Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- N gonorrhoea DNA Urth 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
How the Test Works
The test uses a molecular probe to detect genetic material (nucleic acids) from *N. gonorrhoeae* in your urine. This method is highly sensitive and can identify the bacteria even if symptoms are mild or absent.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a urine sample in a provided container. Some clinics may ask you to avoid urinating for 1–2 hours before testing for best accuracy.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means the test detected *N. gonorrhoeae* DNA in your urine, suggesting gonorrhea infection. A negative result means no detectable genetic material was found, but infection could still be present in other body sites (e.g., cervix, urethra). Follow-up testing may be recommended if symptoms persist.
When You Might Need This Test
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like painful urination, discharge, or pelvic pain, or if you’re at higher risk (e.g., sexually active without protection, recent sexual exposure). It’s also used for screening in sexually transmitted infection (STI) clinics.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Early detection of gonorrhea is critical because untreated infections can lead to serious complications, including pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, or spread to other parts of the body. This test provides rapid results (often same-day) to initiate prompt treatment with antibiotics, reducing risks and preventing transmission to partners.
Short name
Urine Gonorrhea Test (Nucleic Acid Probe)
Frequently asked questions
How soon can I get results?
What if my test is positive?
Can I still have sex while waiting for results?
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