What's this test for?

This test is ideal if a child is experiencing unexplained joint pain, swelling, fever, or difficulty walking or using a limb, especially between the ages of 6 months and 4 years. It helps identify whether a bacterial infection called Kingella kingae is causing joint, bone, or bloodstream problems. Because this bacteria is hard to detect with standard cultures, this test uses a more sensitive method to find it quickly.

What's included in this test?

This test uses a real-time PCR method, a highly sensitive genetic detection technique, to check for the presence of Kingella kingae bacteria. This approach matters because Kingella kingae is notoriously difficult to grow in standard lab cultures, so genetic detection catches infections that older methods might miss.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account as either positive or negative, with a plain-language explanation of what that means. If the result is positive, it's important to act quickly since bone and joint infections in young children can worsen fast, so seeking medical care right away is recommended. A downloadable lab report is available in your account for your records, and you can track any future retests over time using the trends feature.

How can I naturally support joint and bone recovery?

While a bacterial infection like Kingella kingae needs prompt medical treatment and can't be resolved with home remedies alone, supporting the body during recovery helps. Make sure the child gets plenty of rest, stays hydrated, and eats protein and vitamin C rich foods to support tissue healing. Gentle movement, once cleared, can help prevent stiffness, but any specific activity plan should follow directions given after treatment.

When will I get my results?

Results from this test are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being processed at the lab. You'll receive a notification once your results are posted to your secure online account. Because this test is often used for time-sensitive symptoms, contact the lab if you need to confirm expected timing for your specific sample.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good option for parents or caregivers of young children showing signs of joint or bone infection, such as limping, refusing to bear weight, fever, or localized swelling. It's especially useful for kids under 4, the age group most commonly affected by Kingella kingae infections. It can also be considered when standard bacterial cultures come back negative but symptoms strongly suggest an infection.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common signs include sudden joint pain or swelling, refusal to walk or use an arm or leg, fever, and general fussiness or fatigue in a young child. Back pain combined with fever in a child can also point to a spine-related infection called spondylodiscitis. If these symptoms appear suddenly and don't improve, testing can help find the cause quickly.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means the genetic material of Kingella kingae bacteria was found in the sample, indicating an active infection. This is considered a significant finding because this bacteria is a leading cause of joint and bone infections in young children and needs prompt attention. Fast action can help prevent joint damage or the infection spreading further in the body.

What does a negative result mean?

A negative result means no Kingella kingae genetic material was detected in the sample, which makes this specific bacteria an unlikely cause of the symptoms. However, if symptoms persist, another cause should still be looked into, since other bacteria or conditions can cause similar joint or bone symptoms. Retesting or additional evaluation may be reasonable if symptoms continue or worsen.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your result comes back positive, seek medical care promptly, since joint and bone infections in children can progress quickly and may need urgent treatment. Keep a copy of your downloadable lab report handy to share during any visit. Watching for worsening symptoms like increased pain, high fever, or reduced limb movement is important while arranging care.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Kingella Kingae PCR Test - Child Joint & Bone Infection

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

[email protected]