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DNA Labs India

Culture MRSA (Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) Screening Test

DNA Labs India | ISO 9001:2015 Certified

Culture MRSA (Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) Screening Test

Short Name: MRSA Screening Test

Also known as: MRSA Culture Test, Staphylococcus aureus Resistance Screening, MRSA Detection Test

Culture MRSA (Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) Screening Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹983. Uses Chromogenic on Nasal / Axilla / Groin / Wound swabs OR Pure Growth in Amies charcoal transport medium samples. Results in Results typically available within 24 hours of sample receipt at the lab.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Physician🏠 Home Collection

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Overview

To detect the presence of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bacteria in clinical samples for early diagnosis and infection control.

Test Code
415
Price
₹983
Sample Type
Nasal / Axilla / Groin / Wound swabs OR Pure Growth in Amies charcoal transport medium
Result Time
Results typically available within 24 hours of sample receipt at the lab.
Fasting Required
No
Method
Chromogenic
Step 1

Sample Collection

No special preparation required. Inform the healthcare provider about any current medications, especially antibiotics.

Method: Swab collection by healthcare professional

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

A sterile swab will be used to collect samples from the nose, armpits, groin, or wound areas. The procedure is quick and minimally invasive.

Step 3

Report Delivery

Apply a bandage if needed for wound swabs. Resume normal activities. Keep the sample refrigerated until transport.

Timeline: Results typically available within 24 hours of sample receipt at the lab.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:No fasting or special preparation is required. Ensure the sample collection area is clean.
2
During the Test:Sample collection takes a few minutes; swabs are taken from specified sites.
3
After the Test:No restrictions; resume normal activities. Reports are delivered as per the selected method.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

To detect the presence of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bacteria in clinical samples for early diagnosis and infection control.

How to Prepare

  • Sample should be collected by a trained healthcare professional
  • Use provided swabs and transport medium
  • Label the sample correctly with patient details
  • Ship refrigerated to maintain sample integrity

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670

"Early MRSA screening is vital for preventing antibiotic-resistant infections, especially in high-risk settings like hospitals. Timely detection guides appropriate treatment and infection control measures."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeNasal / Axilla / Groin / Wound swabs OR Pure Growth in Amies charcoal transport medium
ContainerAmies charcoal transport medium
Collection MethodSwab collection by healthcare professional

Sample Stability

Room TemperatureNot recommended
Refrigerator (2-8°C)24 hours
FrozenNot recommended
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Sample received in improper transport medium
  • Swab not in Amies charcoal medium
  • Sample contaminated or leaking
  • Incorrect labeling or missing patient information
  • Sample collected beyond stability period

Understanding Your Results

The Culture MRSA screening test results indicate the presence or absence of MRSA bacteria in the collected samples. A positive result requires prompt medical attention, while a negative result suggests no detection of MRSA at the time of testing.
📊

MRSA Detected

Positive for Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Indicates colonization or potential infection, requiring medical consultation for treatment and infection control.

Action: Consult an infectious disease specialist or physician immediately.

📊

MRSA Not Detected

Negative for MRSA in the sample. However, clinical correlation is necessary, as it may not rule out infection if symptoms persist.

Action: If symptoms continue, repeat testing or consider other diagnostic tests.

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

If you have a positive MRSA result, or if symptoms like persistent skin infections, fever, or wound issues do not improve after testing, consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.

Limitations

  • This test detects MRSA presence but does not provide antibiotic sensitivity information
  • May not identify all strains or non-culturable forms
  • False negatives possible if sample load is low
  • Not suitable for diagnosing active infections without clinical correlation

Risks & Considerations

  • Minimal risk of minor discomfort during swab collection
  • Rare chance of infection at collection site
  • Possible false results leading to unnecessary treatment or missed diagnosis

Interfering Factors

  • Prior use of antibiotics may affect bacterial growth
  • Improper sample collection or storage
  • Contamination of sample with other bacteria
  • Recent use of antiseptics on the skin area

Compare With Similar Tests

TestCulture MRSA (Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) Screening TestMRSA PCR TestCulture and Sensitivity Test
ComparisonCulture MRSA (Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) Screening Test

Frequently Asked Questions

What is MRSA?
MRSA stands for Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, a type of bacteria resistant to certain antibiotics, making infections hard to treat.
Why is MRSA screening important?
Screening helps detect MRSA carriers early, preventing spread in healthcare settings and enabling timely infection control measures.
How is the MRSA screening test performed?
A healthcare professional collects swabs from the nose, armpits, groin, or wounds, which are then cultured in a lab to detect MRSA using chromogenic media.
What samples are collected for MRSA testing?
Nasal swabs, axilla swabs, groin swabs, wound swabs, or pure growth in Amies charcoal transport medium.
Is fasting required for this test?
No, no fasting or special preparation is required for the MRSA screening test.
How long does it take to get MRSA test results?
Results are typically available within 24 hours after the sample reaches the lab, with daily collection by 11 AM.
What does a positive MRSA test result mean?
A positive result indicates the presence of MRSA bacteria, suggesting colonization or infection. Consult a doctor for further guidance.
What should I do if my MRSA test is positive?
Seek immediate medical consultation. A healthcare provider may recommend treatment, infection control measures, or additional testing.
Is home sample collection available for MRSA testing?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection for online bookings across many cities in India.
What is the cost of the MRSA screening test?
The test costs INR 982.8, with special discounted pricing available through DNA Labs India.
Are there any risks associated with MRSA testing?
Risks are minimal, including minor discomfort during swab collection. False results are possible but rare.
How can I prevent MRSA infections?
Practice good hygiene, keep wounds clean, avoid sharing personal items, and follow infection control guidelines in healthcare settings.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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Reference Laboratory Services

We serve as a reference laboratory for hospitals and clinics across India. Send samples from your facility with same-day pickup, priority processing, and results delivered through our online portal. Competitive institutional pricing available.

LIMS Integration

Your Data Privacy

Your medical data is protected under Indian law.

Stored in India: All patient records are stored on servers located in India. No data is transferred outside the country.

DPDP Act Compliant: Under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023, you can request deletion of your records at any time by contacting support.

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