SARS-CoV-2 Nucleic Acid Detection in Respiratory Specimen (Qualitative PCR)
This test checks for the genetic material of the virus that causes COVID-19 in a sample taken from your respiratory tract, such as nasal or throat swab.
["Helps determine if you have an active COVID-19 infection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 94559-2
- Short code
- SARS-CoV-2 ORF1ab Resp Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- SARS-CoV-2 ORF1ab Resp Ql NAA+probe
- 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 uses a specialized molecular method to detect the virus’s genetic material (RNA) from a sample collected from your nose or throat. It amplifies and analyzes small amounts of this genetic material to confirm the presence of SARS-CoV-2.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a nasal or throat swab inserted to collect a sample. Some people may experience mild discomfort, but it usually lasts only a few seconds.
Possible Results and Next Steps
A positive result means the test detected the virus’s genetic material, suggesting you likely have an active COVID-19 infection. A negative result means the test did not detect the virus’s genetic material, but this does not always rule out infection if testing was done too early.
When You Might Need This Test
This test is commonly used for diagnosing COVID-19 in people with symptoms like fever, cough, or shortness of breath, or in asymptomatic individuals who may have been exposed to the virus.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test plays a critical role in identifying active COVID-19 infections, guiding public health decisions, and informing treatment and isolation recommendations. Early detection helps prevent the spread of the virus and supports timely medical interventions.
Short name
SARS-CoV-2 RNA Test (Respiratory)
Frequently asked questions
Why might I get this test?
What does a positive result mean?
Can a negative result mean I don’t have COVID-19?
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