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Neisseria gonorrhoeae nucleic acid probe test (conjunctival swab)

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

This test checks for the presence of *Neisseria gonorrhoeae* bacteria in your eye or conjunctiva using a nucleic acid probe. It helps diagnose gonococcal conjunctivitis, a bacterial eye infection often linked to sexual transmission.

Quick summary

["Detects gonococcal eye infections quickly with high accuracy using genetic material from the bacteria."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
99779-1
Short code
N gonorrhoea rRNA Conjunct Ql NAA+probe
Synonyms
N gonorrhoea rRNA 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, swelling, or discharge from your eyes, or if you’ve been exposed to gonorrhea. It’s also used in screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in certain high-risk groups.

How the Test Works

A swab is gently collected from your conjunctiva (the inner lining of your eyelid). The sample is then analyzed in a lab to detect genetic material from *Neisseria gonorrhoeae* using a specialized probe that binds to its DNA.

Sample Collection

No special preparation is needed, but avoid touching or irritating your eyes before the test. The swab is quick and painless, similar to a throat culture.

Test Results and Follow-Up

Results are typically available within 24–48 hours. If positive, follow your provider’s instructions for treatment (often antibiotics). If negative but symptoms persist, further testing or retesting may be advised.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Gonococcal Conjunctivitis

Short name

Gonococcal Conjunctival Probe

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result confirms the presence of *Neisseria gonorrhoeae* bacteria in your eye, indicating gonococcal conjunctivitis. This infection requires immediate antibiotic treatment to prevent complications like permanent eye damage or spread to other parts of the body.
What does a negative result mean?
A negative result means no detectable genetic material from *Neisseria gonorrhoeae* in your sample at the time of testing. However, symptoms could still be due to other causes (e.g., viral infections) or may return. Follow-up testing may be recommended if symptoms persist.
How is gonococcal conjunctivitis treated?
Treatment typically involves oral or topical antibiotics (e.g., azithromycin or ceftriaxone). Always complete the full course of medication as prescribed, even if symptoms improve quickly. Avoid sharing eye makeup or towels to prevent reinfection.
  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