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SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid Protein Gene Qualitative Nucleic Acid Test (PCR)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test detects genetic material from the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, using a sample from your respiratory tract.

Quick summary

Helps confirm if you have an active COVID-19 infection by identifying the virus’s genetic material.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
106617-4
Short code
SARS-CoV-2 ORF1ab +N gene Nph Ql NAA prb
Synonyms
SARS-CoV-2 ORF1ab +N gene Nph Ql 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
CPT
86430
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 extracts genetic material (nucleic acids) from a sample taken from your nose or throat. Specialized lab equipment then identifies the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus’s nucleocapsid protein gene, which is unique to COVID-19. If the virus is present, the test will detect it.

Sample Collection

A healthcare provider will collect a sample using a swab from your upper respiratory tract. This is usually done during a nasal or throat swab procedure. The sample is then sent to a lab for testing.

Test Results Interpretation

Results are reported as either **positive** (indicating active COVID-19 infection) or **negative** (no detectable virus). A positive result means you may have COVID-19 and should follow medical advice for isolation and treatment.

When to Get Tested

This test is commonly used during COVID-19 screening, especially if you have symptoms like fever, cough, or shortness of breath, or if you’ve been exposed to someone with COVID-19. It may also be recommended for pre-travel, workplace, or school testing.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A positive result confirms an active COVID-19 infection and guides treatment decisions, such as isolating at home, seeking medical care, or starting antiviral medications. A negative result means the virus was not detected at the time of testing, but reinfection or false negatives can occur, so monitoring symptoms remains important.

Short name

Nucleic Acid Test for SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result indicates that the virus responsible for COVID-19 was detected in your sample. This means you likely have an active infection and should follow public health guidelines for isolation and care.
Can I get a false negative result?
Yes, false negatives can happen, especially if testing is done too early in the illness or if the sample wasn’t collected correctly. If you develop symptoms after testing negative, consider retesting or seeking medical advice.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 24 hours, but turnaround times may vary depending on lab capacity and testing volume. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the results.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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