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Staphylococcus aureus DNA in Whole Blood by Nucleic Acid Amplification Probe

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

This test checks for genetic material from *Staphylococcus aureus* bacteria in your blood, which may indicate an infection.

Quick summary

["Helps identify blood infections caused by a specific type of staph bacteria."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
61404-0
Short code
S aureus DNA Spec Ql NAA+probe
Synonyms
S aureus DNA Spec 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 order this test if you have symptoms of a blood infection (sepsis) or if you’ve been exposed to *Staphylococcus aureus*. It helps confirm whether the bacteria causing your symptoms are this particular strain.

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is taken, and special equipment detects the bacteria’s DNA using a probe. This method is highly sensitive and can detect even small amounts of infection.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a slight bruise or soreness at the needle site, but this usually goes away quickly.

What the Results Mean

A positive result means the test found *Staphylococcus aureus* DNA in your blood, suggesting an active infection. A negative result means the bacteria were not detected in this sample.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: This test is critical for diagnosing bloodstream infections caused by *Staphylococcus aureus*, guiding treatment decisions (e.g., antibiotics). Early detection improves outcomes, especially in severe cases like sepsis.

Short name

Staph aureus DNA test

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result strongly suggests an active *Staphylococcus aureus* infection in your blood. Your doctor will work with you to determine the best treatment, which may include antibiotics.
Can false positives or negatives occur?
While rare, false positives or negatives can happen. Your doctor will consider the full clinical picture, including symptoms and other test results, to make an accurate diagnosis.
How soon will I get my results?
Results are typically available within 24–48 hours, depending on lab processing times. Your healthcare provider will discuss them with you.
  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