This lab test looks for specific genetic material from the bacteria that cause leptospirosis, a disease that spreads from animals to humans, especially in wet or flooded environments. It helps doctors detect whether the bacteria are present in your blood or urine during the early stages of illness—sometimes even before your body starts making antibodies. This test uses a technique called PCR, which is very sensitive and allows for quick and accurate results. Timely testing and diagnosis are important because leptospirosis can be serious if not treated early, sometimes affecting the kidneys, liver, or other organs.

What it Measures

The test checks for the presence of Leptospira bacteria by finding its DNA in a blood or urine sample:

Leptospira DNA: This means searching for tiny pieces of the bacteria’s genetic material (DNA). If DNA is found, it shows the bacteria are in the body.
Qualitative Result: The test gives a ‘positive’ or ‘negative’ result—it simply tells whether the bacteria is detected, not how much is present.
Early Detection: Unlike some other tests that need your body to create an immune response (like producing antibodies), this PCR test can find the bacteria much earlier, sometimes within the first few days after symptoms start.
Sample Types: Usually, blood or urine samples are used. In certain situations, other body fluids (such as cerebrospinal fluid) may be tested if a doctor thinks it’s needed.
What is not measured: This test does not measure how bad the infection is or check for organ damage. It only answers whether the bacteria is present in your sample.

Early and accurate detection of the infection can help guide your doctor to start treatment sooner, avoiding possible complications and quick recovery.

Why is it Important

Helps Diagnose Early: This test can detect leptospirosis even before the body starts making antibodies, offering a head start in diagnosis and treatment when the infection is at its earliest stage.
Guides Treatment: Early and accurate detection helps your doctor prescribe the right medicines quickly, which can reduce the risk of severe illness involving the liver, kidney, or brain.
Prevents Serious Complications: Untreated leptospirosis can damage several organs. Early action based on this test may help protect your long-term health.
Avoids Confusion with Similar Illnesses: Because leptospirosis symptoms—like fever, headache, and muscle pain—are common to many infections, this test helps confirm the actual cause and avoid unnecessary medicines or tests.
Useful for Outbreak Control: In areas with heavy rainfall or flooding, this test helps health professionals quickly identify cases and reduce community spread.

When Should I Get This Test?

You might need this test if you:

Have a high fever, chills, headache, and severe muscle aches, especially after contact with muddy water or animals.
Notice red eyes (conjunctival suffusion) alongside flu-like symptoms.
Experience sudden vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach pain after outdoor exposure.
Live in an area with heavy rains, flooding, or outbreaks of leptospirosis.
Have unexplained jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes), dark urine, or kidney/liver issues soon after animal contact or travel.

Interpretation of Test Results

Understanding what your results might mean is helpful, but always discuss them with a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

Result Type	What it Means
Negative	No Leptospira DNA found; infection unlikely
Borderline	Results unclear; repeat test or review needed
Positive	Leptospira DNA found; confirms infection

(Note: Specific normal ranges can vary slightly between labs and depending on individual factors. Always refer to the ranges provided on your report and consult your doctor.)

Additional Information

This test is most accurate in the early days of symptoms, before the body forms detectable antibody levels.
If positive, your doctor may suggest extra tests to check kidney, liver, or other organ function.
Always follow infection control advice and finish any prescribed medicines as directed by your healthcare provider.

Test Requirements

Sample Type: Blood or urine
Fasting: Not required; you can eat and drink as usual
Precautions: No special preparation needed, but inform the lab if you are taking antibiotics or have other medical conditions. Follow your doctor’s advice for sample collection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need to fast before this test?
No, fasting isn't needed for the Leptospira PCR test. You should eat and drink as usual unless your doctor gives you other instructions.
What happens if my test result is positive?
A positive result means the bacteria’s DNA is found in your sample. Your doctor will explain the next steps, which may include starting antibiotics and possibly more tests to check your kidneys or liver.
Can pregnancy affect the results or can I take this test while pregnant?
Yes, you can take this test if you are pregnant. Pregnancy does not usually affect the results, but always inform your doctor and lab about your pregnancy for the safest care.
What should I do after getting an abnormal result?
If the result is positive (abnormal), follow up with your doctor quickly. They will advise on starting medicines and may request follow-up tests to make sure your body is safe.
Why is this PCR test used instead of an antibody test?
PCR tests detect Leptospira DNA early, before your body makes antibodies. Antibody tests work better later in the illness, but may miss early infections. PCR is the best early test after symptoms start.

For more information, see Netmeds Health Library blog: Leptospirosis – Causes, Symptoms And Treatment.

Partnered Health Labs:

Leptospira DNA detection by PCR Blood

Test provided by

Sample collection from

Test requirements

Doctor VerifiedReports

30+ Years of experience

Millions Happy Customers

Doctor Verified
Reports

30+ Years of
experience

Millions Happy
Customers