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Neisseria gonorrhoeae Nucleic Acid Test (Throat) via Probe

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

This test checks for the presence of *Neisseria gonorrhoeae* bacteria in your throat using a swab probe. It helps determine if you may have gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted infection.

Quick summary

["A quick way to check for throat gonorrhea infection with high accuracy."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
60255-7
Short code
N gonorrhoea rRNA Throat Ql NAA+probe
Synonyms
N gonorrhoea rRNA Throat 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

A healthcare provider collects a sample from your throat using a sterile swab. The swab is then tested in a lab using a molecular probe to detect genetic material from *Neisseria gonorrhoeae*. This method is highly sensitive and can detect even small amounts of the bacteria.

What to Expect Before the Test

You may not need any special preparation. Simply inform your healthcare provider if you’re pregnant, have a weakened immune system, or are taking certain medications that could affect test results.

What to Expect After the Test

The test is usually quick and painless. You may experience mild throat discomfort, but this is normal. Avoid rinsing your mouth with mouthwash or eating/drinking for a few hours before the test if instructed.

When This Test Is Used

This test is typically ordered for people with symptoms like sore throat, redness, or discharge from the throat, or as part of routine screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It may also be recommended for close contacts of someone known to have gonorrhea.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Gonorrhea Throat Test

Frequently asked questions

Why is this test important?
Early detection of gonorrhea is crucial because untreated infections can lead to serious health complications, including severe throat or eye infections, joint pain, or, in rare cases, bloodstream infections. This test helps guide treatment and prevent spread to others.
How does this test differ from other gonorrhea tests?
Unlike traditional culture tests, which may take days to results, this nucleic acid test provides results in hours. It’s also more sensitive, meaning it can detect gonorrhea even when symptoms are mild or absent.
What if my test result is positive?
If positive, you’ll need to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for treatment, which usually involves antibiotics. Both you and your sexual partners should be tested and treated to prevent reinfection or spread.
  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