Pneumococcal Nucleic Acid Detection in Lower Respiratory Specimen (Qualitative)
This test checks for the genetic material of *Pneumococcus* bacteria in your lower respiratory tract, helping identify infections caused by this common cause of pneumonia, bronchitis, or other lung illnesses.
["A quick way to detect pneumonia or lung infections caused by *Pneumococcus* bacteria."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 94367-0
- Short code
- S pneum DNA Lower resp Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- S pneum DNA Lower resp Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- coagulation
- 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
What This Test Measures
The test detects genetic material (nucleic acid) from *Pneumococcus* bacteria in your lower respiratory secretions, such as sputum or induced sputum. It does not measure the bacteria’s presence or activity directly but confirms if the organism’s DNA is present, which can indicate an infection.
How the Test Works
This is a molecular test (nucleic acid amplification test) that uses a probe to identify specific genetic sequences unique to *Pneumococcus*. Results are typically available within a few hours, depending on lab processing.
Why It’s Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like cough, fever, shortness of breath, or other signs of pneumonia, bronchitis, or other lung infections. It helps confirm whether *Pneumococcus* is the cause of your symptoms.
Sample Collection
You’ll likely provide a sample of your lower respiratory secretions, such as sputum (phlegm) or induced sputum (after a breathing maneuver to bring up mucus). Avoid coughing or swallowing before sample collection to ensure accurate results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Pneumococcal NAAT (Lower Resp)
Frequently asked questions
This test is crucial for diagnosing infections caused by *Pneumococcus*, a leading cause of pneumonia, meningitis, and other serious illnesses. Early identification allows for targeted antibiotic treatment, improving recovery outcomes.
A positive result means the test detected genetic material from *Pneumococcus* in your sample. This strongly suggests an infection caused by this bacterium, and your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat it. Further testing may be needed to confirm the exact strain and guide treatment.
A negative result means no genetic material from *Pneumococcus* was found in your sample. However, this does not rule out other causes of your symptoms. Your doctor may recommend additional tests or follow-up to investigate other potential infections or underlying conditions.
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