Antigen Detection for SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) by Rapid Immunochromatographic Assay (Serum/Plasma)
This test detects the presence of SARS-CoV-2 antigens in your blood, which may indicate an active COVID-19 infection. It uses a rapid immunoassay method to provide results quickly.
["Quickly checks for active COVID-19 infection using blood samples and a simple test strip method."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 97099-6
- Short code
- FLUABV+SARS-CoV2 Ag Pnl Up resp IA.rapid
- Synonyms
- FLUABV+SARS-CoV2 Ag Pnl Up resp IA.rapid
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia-rapid
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
How the Test Works
The test detects specific proteins (antigens) from the SARS-CoV-2 virus in your serum or plasma. When the virus is present, these antigens bind to antibodies in the test strip, creating a visible line or pattern. This reaction confirms whether you have an active infection.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a blood draw from a vein, and the sample will be processed immediately to detect the antigens. Results are typically available within 15–30 minutes.
Limitations and Accuracy
This test is designed for rapid screening and may not detect all cases of COVID-19, especially if the infection is very early or has waned. It is not as accurate as PCR tests for confirming infection.
When This Test Might Be Used
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test for rapid assessment in settings like urgent care, workplace screening, or when immediate results are needed for travel or exposure control.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: This test helps identify active COVID-19 infections quickly, which is important for isolating individuals, guiding treatment decisions, and controlling outbreaks in communities. It is particularly useful for high-risk groups or situations where PCR testing is not immediately available.
Short name
COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
Why might my test result be negative even if I suspect I have COVID-19?
Can this test detect COVID-19 in saliva instead of blood?
How soon after exposure should I get tested for this antigen test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy