Stenotrophomonas maltophilia DNA [Presence] in Blood by Nucleic Acid Probe
Detects Stenotrophomonas maltophilia DNA in whole blood to help evaluate a possible bloodstream infection.
["A positive result means S. maltophilia DNA was detected in the blood, but clinical findings and culture results are needed to determine whether it represents infection or contamination."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 93391-1
- Short code
- S maltoph DNA Bld Pos Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- S maltoph DNA Bld Pos Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 7
- Ref high
- 56
- Critical range
- — – 500 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302773008
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This blood test uses a nucleic acid probe to look for DNA from Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, a bacterium that can cause infections in hospitalized people and those with weakened immune systems.
Why might I need this test?
It may be ordered when a bloodstream infection is suspected or when S. maltophilia is identified in a blood culture. The result can help guide evaluation and treatment decisions alongside other clinical and laboratory findings.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected and tested in the laboratory for specific S. maltophilia DNA sequences. A nucleic acid probe can detect the organism's genetic material without relying on the bacteria growing in a culture.
How do I prepare for the test?
No special preparation is generally required for a blood sample. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions, particularly if the specimen is being collected as part of a blood-culture workup.
Reference range
Adult males: 7-56 U/L; Adult females: 7-43 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result indicates that S. maltophilia DNA was present in the blood sample. This may represent true bloodstream infection, especially in a symptomatic or medically vulnerable patient, but contamination or the presence of the bacterium elsewhere can also affect interpretation. Blood cultures and the clinical picture are important for confirming infection and determining the appropriate treatment.
Short name
S. maltophilia DNA, Blood
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive S. maltophilia DNA result mean?
Does a negative result completely rule out an infection?
Does this test show 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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy