Plasma/Serum RNA Probe for Viral Detection (e.g., SARS-CoV-2, Influenza, Respiratory Pathogens)
This test detects genetic material (RNA) from certain viruses in your blood, plasma, or serum. It helps identify infections that may not be visible through other tests.
["Quickly identifies viral infections using genetic testing for better early diagnosis and treatment planning."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 75540-5
- Short code
- HAV RNA+B19V DNA Plas Donr NAA+probe-Imp
- Synonyms
- HAV RNA+B19V DNA Plas Donr NAA+probe-Imp
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- plasma
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
- 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
What This Test Measures
The test uses a specialized probe to detect RNA fragments from specific viruses, including respiratory viruses like COVID-19 or influenza. It checks for the presence of these genetic sequences in your blood, plasma, or serum samples. This method is highly sensitive and can detect very small amounts of viral RNA, even when symptoms are mild or early.
How the Test Works
The test involves extracting RNA from your sample and applying a probe that binds to the viral RNA sequences. If the virus is present, the probe will attach, allowing for detection. This process is often automated and can provide results quickly, sometimes within hours.
When You Might Need This Test
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms of a viral infection, such as fever, cough, or respiratory issues, and suspect exposure to a virus like COVID-19, flu, or another respiratory pathogen. It can also be used in screening or monitoring for certain viral infections in clinical or research settings.
Preparation and Sample Collection
No special preparation is needed for this test. You will provide a blood, plasma, or serum sample, typically collected by a healthcare professional. The sample is then sent to a lab for processing and analysis.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test plays a critical role in diagnosing viral infections early, which can guide timely treatment and management. Detecting viral RNA helps confirm infections that might not be apparent through other diagnostic methods, such as culture tests or antibody tests. It is particularly useful in outbreaks, monitoring high-risk populations, or confirming infections in individuals with atypical symptoms.
Short name
Viral RNA Probe Test
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test detect all types of viruses?
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