Fluorescent Immunoassay for Antigen Detection in Nasopharyngeal Swab (e.g., Respiratory Virus Probe)
This test detects specific viruses in a nasal or throat swab using a fluorescent probe to identify possible infections, such as those causing colds, flu, or other respiratory illnesses.
["Quickly checks for common viruses in your upper respiratory tract."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 100973-7
- Short code
- FLUAV RNA Nose Ql NAA+n-prb
- Synonyms
- FLUAV RNA Nose Ql NAA+n-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
- non-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
A swab is collected from your nose or throat to gather cells and fluids. The sample is then tested in a lab using a fluorescent probe that binds to viral particles if present. If the virus is detected, the probe lights up, indicating a positive result.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a slight sore throat or discomfort from the swab, but it usually doesn’t require any downtime. Avoid using mouthwash or eating/drinking for 15 minutes before the test if instructed.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means the test detected the presence of a virus in your sample. This does not confirm a diagnosis but may prompt further testing or guidance from your healthcare provider. A negative result means the virus was not detected in this sample.
Common Causes and Symptoms
This test is often used for respiratory viruses like rhinovirus, influenza, or coronavirus. Symptoms may include cough, sore throat, fever, congestion, or fatigue. If you have symptoms, your provider may recommend this test to help diagnose the cause.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Viral Respiratory Probe
Frequently asked questions
This test helps healthcare providers quickly identify viral infections that may require treatment, monitoring, or isolation recommendations. It supports accurate diagnosis and guides decisions about managing symptoms or preventing spread.
How long will it take to get my results?
Can I get false results from 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