MRSA PCR Test – Same-Day Swab in London
Reviewed by Dr Lauren Holland • Marylebone Diagnostic Centre
Results within 24 – 42 hours. Westminster residents receive 20% off.
MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus) is a type of bacteria that can live harmlessly on the skin or inside the nose but can cause infections if it enters the body. Hospitals, private surgeons and clinics often require a pre-operative MRSA PCR swab before surgery to ensure patients are not carriers. Many Londoners also request MRSA testing when they experience recurrent infections, persistent boils, or have been in close contact with someone diagnosed with MRSA.
This guide explains what an MRSA PCR test checks, why it is required for surgery, how same-day swabbing works, and how Marylebone Diagnostic Centre offers fast and discreet MRSA screening in central London with results available within 24–42 hours.
What Is an MRSA PCR Test?
An MRSA PCR test is a rapid method used to detect MRSA bacteria in:
- The nose
- The throat
- The groin
- Wounds (if clinically indicated)
Why PCR testing is preferred
PCR detects MRSA DNA directly.
It is:
- Fast
- Highly sensitive
- Highly accurate
- Reliable for pre-surgical clearance
- Suitable for asymptomatic screening
This is the method requested by most surgeons and hospitals.
Who Needs an MRSA Test?
You may need a same-day MRSA swab if you:
- Are preparing for private surgery
- Have been asked for MRSA clearance by your surgeon
- Have been admitted to hospital recently
- Work in a healthcare or care home setting
- Have recurrent boils, skin infections or abscesses
- Live with someone diagnosed with MRSA
- Want fast reassurance before a procedure
- Have eczema or broken skin and want to rule out MRSA carriage
Clinically, we see the highest demand from patients who need urgent clearance before upcoming operations.
Why Hospitals Require MRSA Screening Before Surgery
MRSA carriers do not usually feel unwell, but during surgery MRSA can enter wounds and increase the risk of infection. Screening reduces this risk and helps hospitals maintain safe surgical practice.
MRSA screening is required for:
- Orthopaedic surgery
- Cosmetic surgery
- Dental or facial surgery
- Abdominal procedures
- Gynaecological operations
- Urological operations
- General surgical procedures
Private surgeons often request nose and groin swabs at minimum.
Symptoms of MRSA
Most MRSA carriers have no symptoms.
However, if an infection develops, symptoms may include:
- Red, swollen or painful skin
- Boils or abscesses
- Warmth around the area
- Pus or discharge
- Fever (in more serious cases)
Testing is the only reliable way to diagnose MRSA carriage.
How the MRSA PCR Swab Works
At Marylebone Diagnostic Centre:
- You arrive at 73 Baker Street
- A clinician collects nasal or groin swabs
- Samples are processed using PCR technology
- Results are reviewed by a doctor.
- Results are provided within 24 – 42 hours
The appointment typically takes less than 10 minutes.
What Does the MRSA PCR Test Check?
The test screens for:
- MRSA nasal carriage
- MRSA in the groin
- MRSA in wounds or skin lesions (if requested)
These swabs identify whether MRSA is present on the body’s surface.
MRSA PCR Test Cost at Marylebone Diagnostic Centre
MRSA PCR Swab – Nose and Groin:
Price: £120 BOOK NOW
Discount: Westminster residents receive 20% off
I can prepare a formal pricing table if you’d like.
How Fast Are Results?
Results are typically available within:
✔ 24–42 hours
If you have surgery scheduled soon, our team can note urgency and prioritise turnaround.
Do You Need Treatment If MRSA Is Found?
If the test is positive, treatment usually includes:
- Antibacterial nasal ointment
- Antiseptic body washes
- Skin decolonisation routine
- Repeat swabs after treatment
- Follow-up advice from your surgeon or GP
The MRSA decolonisation protocol normally lasts 5 days.
Clinically, most cases clear successfully with targeted treatment.
Why Choose Marylebone Diagnostic Centre for MRSA Testing?
- Reliable PCR testing
- Fast turnaround
- Private suites
- Discreet and confidential
- Central London location (73 Baker Street)
- Reviewed by a doctor
- 24 – 42-hour results
- Open Monday–Saturday
- 5-minute walk from Baker Street Tube
- 20% off for Westminster residents
Patients value the speed, accuracy and ease of same-day MRSA swabbing.
When to Get Same-Day Testing
Same-day MRSA swabs are ideal when:
- You are booked for surgery within days
- Your surgeon requires urgent clearance
- Your hospital admin team has asked for immediate MRSA screening
- You need MRSA results before travelling
- A close contact has recently tested positive
- You want reassurance after a hospital visit
Same-day appointments are usually available at MDC.
FAQs
1. What is an MRSA PCR test?
A rapid test that detects MRSA bacteria using DNA-based PCR technology.
2. How quickly will I get results?
Most results return within 24 – 42 hours.
3. Why do I need this test before surgery?
To ensure you are not carrying MRSA, which can increase postoperative infection risk.
4. How is the test taken?
A clinician collects a swab from the nose and, in some cases, the groin or skin sites.
5. Is MRSA dangerous?
Carriers often feel normal, but MRSA can cause infections after surgery or through broken skin.
6. Is treatment required if positive?
Yes, a standard decolonisation treatment is usually recommended.
7. Do I need to fast?
No. No preparation is needed.
8. How long is the appointment?
Usually less than 10 minutes.
Book Your MRSA PCR Test at Marylebone Diagnostic Centre
Marylebone Diagnostic Centre
73 Baker Street, London W1U 6RD
Tel: +44 7495 970109
Open Monday–Saturday, 08:00–16:00
Fast, private and confidential MRSA PCR swabs with results in 24 – 42 hours.
Westminster residents receive 20% off all tests.
