Acbcplxdnalowerrespqlnaanprb
A molecular test that detects the DNA of Acinetobacter baumannii bacteria in respiratory samples to diagnose lung infections.
{"Detects harmful Acinetobacter bacteria in lung/breathing samples","Uses advanced DNA technology for fast, accurate results","Helps doctors choose the right antibiotic treatment","Commonly used for hospital-acquired pneumonia","Results typically available within 24-48 hours"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 111510-4
- Short code
- ACBA-NAA
- Synonyms
- ACB cplx DNA Lower resp Ql NAA+n-prb
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof container for sputum; sterile container for bronchoalveolar lavage fluid
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 0 years
- Method
- non-probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 87640
- SNOMED
- 122442008
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL for BAL fluid; adequate sputum (approximately 1-2 mL)
- Stability
- Refrigerated at 2-8°C for up to 48 hours; if delay exceeds 48 hours, store at -70°C or below
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This test looks for the DNA (genetic material) of Acinetobacter calcoaceticus-baumannii complex bacteria in a sample from your lower respiratory tract, such as sputum (phlegm) or bronchoalveolar lavage (fluid from the lungs). Acinetobacter baumannii is a type of bacteria that can cause serious lung infections, especially in hospitalized patients, particularly those in intensive care units.
How is the test performed?
A healthcare provider will collect a sample from your respiratory tract—either by having you cough up sputum into a sterile container or by using a thin tube (bronchoscope) to collect fluid from your lungs. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where technicians use a technique called Nucleic Acid Amplification (NAA) to detect the specific DNA of the Acinetobacter bacteria. This method is highly sensitive and can identify even small amounts of bacteria.
Why is this test important?
Acinetobacter baumannii is a common cause of hospital-acquired pneumonia and other respiratory infections. It is particularly concerning because many strains have become resistant to multiple antibiotics, making treatment challenging. This test helps doctors quickly identify if this bacteria is causing your infection, allowing them to select the most appropriate treatment as soon as possible.
Reference range
Not detected - No Acinetobacter calcoaceticus-baumannii complex DNA detected in the specimenN/A
For sputum collection, patient should rinse mouth with water before collection to minimize contamination. Avoid eating or drinking immediately before collection. For bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), collection is performed by healthcare professional during bronchoscopy.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Does this test hurt?
How long does it take to get results?
What do positive results mean?
Do I need to prepare for this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2
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