Antigen detection test for SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein in respiratory specimens (qualitative probe)
This test checks for the presence of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, in your respiratory secretions (like nasal or throat swabs). It helps determine if you may be contagious, even if you’re not showing symptoms.
["A quick way to identify possible COVID-19 infection by detecting viral proteins in your respiratory sample."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 95422-2
- Short code
- FLUABV + SARS-CoV-2 Pnl Resp NAA+prb
- Synonyms
- FLUABV + SARS-CoV-2 Pnl Resp NAA+prb
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- 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
This test uses a probe to detect specific viral proteins called nucleocapsid antigens in your respiratory sample. If the virus is present, the test will show a positive result, indicating potential infection. Results are typically available within 15–60 minutes.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a nasal or throat swab collected by a healthcare provider to gather respiratory secretions. If you’re experiencing symptoms like coughing, fever, or shortness of breath, inform your provider before testing.
What to Expect After the Test
After the test, you’ll receive a result quickly. A positive result suggests you may have an active infection and could be contagious. A negative result means the test did not detect the virus at the time of testing, but you should still follow up with your healthcare provider if symptoms persist.
When This Test Is Used
This test is commonly used for COVID-19 screening in high-risk settings, such as healthcare facilities, long-term care facilities, or during outbreaks. It may also be used in asymptomatic individuals or those with mild symptoms to assess contagiousness.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result indicates the presence of SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid proteins, which strongly suggest an active infection. This can help guide isolation measures and treatment decisions. A negative result does not definitively rule out infection, especially if symptoms develop later. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
Short name
SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid Antigen Test (Respiratory)
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can a negative result mean I don’t have COVID-19?
How accurate is this 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