What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing a persistent cough, sore throat, fatigue, or mild fever that won't go away, especially if you suspect a respiratory infection sometimes called "walking pneumonia." It looks for genetic material from Mycoplasma pneumoniae bacteria, a common cause of lung and airway infections. It's useful when you want a fast, direct answer about whether this specific bacteria is behind your symptoms.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your online account with a clear explanation of what a positive or negative result means. If your result is positive, next steps typically include rest, hydration, and appropriate care since this infection often needs specific treatment different from viral colds; if you have severe symptoms like trouble breathing or high fever, seek medical care right away. A downloadable lab report is available in your account for your records. You can also track this and any future results over time using the trends feature.

Who should consider this test?

Anyone with a lingering cough, chest discomfort, or flu-like symptoms that haven't improved with typical rest or over-the-counter remedies should consider this test. It's especially helpful for people in close contact with someone diagnosed with a respiratory infection, since Mycoplasma pneumoniae spreads easily in households, schools, and dorms. People with symptoms lasting more than a week or two are good candidates.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common signs include a dry, persistent cough that lingers for weeks, low-grade fever, fatigue, headache, and sore throat. Some people also notice chest discomfort or mild shortness of breath. Because these symptoms overlap with other respiratory illnesses, this test helps pinpoint whether Mycoplasma bacteria specifically are the cause.

What is Mycoplasma pneumoniae and why does it matter?

Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a type of bacteria that infects the lungs and airways, often causing a mild but long-lasting form of pneumonia nicknamed "walking pneumonia" because people often keep going about daily life while sick. It matters because it spreads easily between people and can linger for weeks if not addressed. Identifying it helps guide the right kind of care since it doesn't respond to all antibiotics.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being processed at the lab. You'll get a notification as soon as your results are available in your secure online account. This turnaround allows enough time for the sensitive PCR technology to accurately detect any bacterial DNA present.

How can I naturally support recovery from a respiratory infection?

Getting plenty of rest, staying well-hydrated, and using a humidifier can help soothe irritated airways while your body fights off infection. Warm fluids like tea with honey may ease a sore throat and cough. Eating nutrient-rich foods and avoiding smoke or other lung irritants can also support your recovery, though persistent or worsening symptoms may need more than home care.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means Mycoplasma pneumoniae DNA was detected in your sample, suggesting an active or recent infection. It doesn't necessarily tell you how severe the infection is, so your symptoms and how you're feeling overall matter too. This result is usually looked at alongside your symptoms to figure out the best next steps.

What causes a Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection?

This infection is caused by breathing in droplets from an infected person's cough or sneeze, making it common in crowded settings like schools, workplaces, and households. It spreads more easily in close quarters and during fall and winter months. Anyone can catch it, though it's especially common in school-age children and young adults.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your result is positive, focus on rest, fluids, and monitoring your symptoms closely, and seek medical care promptly if you develop trouble breathing, chest pain, or a high fever. Avoid close contact with others to reduce the chance of spreading the infection. Retesting later can help confirm the infection has cleared once you've recovered.

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.

Mycoplasma Pneumoniae PCR Test - Pneumonia Detection

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

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