Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Detection in Blood Culture
This test checks for the presence of methicillin-resistant *Staphylococcus aureus* (MRSA), a type of bacteria that can cause infections in the blood. It helps healthcare providers determine if you have an MRSA infection requiring specific treatment.
["MRSA infections can be serious; early detection helps guide antibiotic choices."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 92049-6
- Short code
- Staph methicillin resist Islt/Spm
- Synonyms
- Staph methicillin resist Islt/Spm
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- 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
- molgen
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- 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
This test involves collecting a sample of your blood, which is then analyzed to detect genetic markers associated with MRSA resistance to methicillin. The test does not measure active bacterial growth directly but identifies the bacteria’s genetic profile through molecular methods.
Why It’s Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of a serious infection (such as fever, chills, or persistent pain) or if you’ve been exposed to MRSA. It’s also used in settings like hospitals or nursing homes where MRSA is common.
How the Test Works
Blood is drawn from a vein, placed in a special container, and sent to a lab. Advanced techniques (like polymerase chain reaction, or PCR) examine the DNA of your blood cells to identify MRSA-specific genetic sequences.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but inform your doctor about any medications, recent infections, or allergies. Avoid eating or drinking for 2 hours before the draw if instructed.
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.
Clinical Significance
Short name
MRSA Blood Culture Screening
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I prevent MRSA infections?
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