Neisseria gonorrhoeae nucleic acid detection by urine specimen
This test checks for the presence of gonorrhea bacteria in your urine. Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by *Neisseria gonorrhoeae* that can affect the genitals, rectum, or throat.
["A positive result means gonorrhea bacteria may be present, prompting further medical evaluation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 104780-2
- Short code
- N gonorrhoea rRNA Spec Ql
- Synonyms
- N gonorrhoea rRNA Spec Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- molgen
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unusual discharge, pain during urination, or bleeding between periods. It’s also used as a screening test for sexually active individuals at higher risk of STIs, including those with multiple partners or recent exposure.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll likely be asked to provide a urine sample in a sterile container. If you’re unsure about recent sexual activity, mention it to your provider—they may adjust testing recommendations.
What Happens During the Test?
The test involves collecting a urine sample, which is then analyzed in a lab to detect genetic material from gonorrhea bacteria. Results are typically available within 24–48 hours.
What Do the Results Mean?
A **positive** result indicates gonorrhea bacteria are likely present and requires treatment with antibiotics. A **negative** result means no detectable bacteria were found, but it doesn’t rule out infection in all cases (e.g., if the infection is in the rectum or throat). Follow-up testing may be needed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Untreated gonorrhea can lead to serious complications, including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, infertility, or spread to other parts of the body. It can also increase the risk of HIV transmission. Early detection and treatment are critical to prevent these outcomes.
Short name
Gonorrhea Urine Test
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get the results?
What if I get a positive result?
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