Neisseria gonorrhoeae RNA Detection by Nucleic Acid Amplification Probe
This test detects genetic material from the bacteria *Neisseria gonorrhoeae*, which causes gonorrhea, using a specialized probe to identify infection in your sample.
["Helps confirm gonorrhea infection with high accuracy using a quick molecular test."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 60256-5
- Short code
- N gonorrhoea rRNA Ur Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- N gonorrhoea rRNA Ur Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
How the Test Works
The test uses a probe designed to bind to the RNA of *Neisseria gonorrhoeae*. When your sample contains the bacteria’s genetic material, the probe attaches, and the test detects it through amplification, often in a few hours or less. This method is highly sensitive and specific for detecting gonorrhea.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed unless your healthcare provider specifies it. You may provide a urine sample, swab from the cervix (for women), urethra (for men), or other relevant body fluid depending on your symptoms or medical history.
When This Test Is Used
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like pain during urination, unusual discharge, or other signs of infection. It’s also used for screening, diagnosing, or confirming gonorrhea in people who may be at higher risk, such as those with multiple sexual partners or recent exposure.
Results and Next Steps
Results are typically available within hours or days. If the test is positive, you’ll need treatment with antibiotics to clear the infection. Follow-up testing may be recommended to ensure the infection is fully resolved.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Detecting *Neisseria gonorrhoeae* RNA early is crucial because untreated gonorrhea can lead to serious complications, including pelvic inflammatory disease (in women), infertility, or spread to other parts of the body. This test helps confirm infection quickly, allowing for prompt treatment and reducing risks to your health and others.
Short name
Gonorrhea RNA Test (Nucleic Acid Probe)
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test be used for other infections?
How soon after exposure can I get a positive result?
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