: Staphylococcus aureus DNA Detection in Nasal Swab by Non-Probe Nucleic Acid Amplification (Qualitative)
: This test uses a molecular method to detect genetic material from Staphylococcus aureus, a common bacterium, in a sample collected from the nose with a swab.
[": A positive result indicates that S. aureus DNA was found in the nasal sample, but it does not by itself mean there is an active infection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 92952-1
- Short code
- S aureus DNA Spt NAA+non-prb-NCncRng
- Synonyms
- S aureus DNA Spt NAA+non-prb-NCncRng
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- sputum
- Container
- Sterile sputum container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- non-probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- Specimen volume
- 3-5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
: What This Test Looks For
: The test detects DNA from Staphylococcus aureus, a bacterium that frequently lives harmlessly on the skin and inside the front of the nose. Molecular amplification makes tiny amounts of bacterial DNA easier to detect.
: How the Sample Is Collected
: A swab is gently rubbed inside the nostrils to collect nasal secretions and cells. The sample is then processed in the laboratory to look for bacterial DNA. Collection is quick and generally does not require special preparation.
: Understanding Your Results
: A positive result means S. aureus DNA was detected in the nasal sample, which may reflect colonization or could be part of an infection evaluation when combined with symptoms. A negative result means the DNA was not detected, though results always depend on sample quality and the specific method used.
: Why Your Provider Ordered It
: This type of test may be used to help assess nasal carriage of S. aureus or to support diagnosis when a staphylococcal infection is suspected. Your provider will interpret the result alongside your symptoms, exam, and other tests.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
: Nasal carriage of Staphylococcus aureus is common and often does not cause illness, but it can be a risk factor for certain infections, especially after surgery or in people with weakened immunity. Molecular testing can aid in detecting the organism, but results must be interpreted in clinical context; the test cannot by itself distinguish colonization from active infection or determine antibiotic susceptibility.
Short name
: S. aureus Nasal PCR
Frequently asked questions
: Does a positive result mean I have an infection?
: Do I need to prepare for the nasal swab?
: Can this test tell which antibiotics will work?
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