SARS-CoV-2 Nucleic Acid Detection by Respiratory Specimen Probe (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 your nose or throat.
["Determines if you may have an active COVID-19 infection based on viral presence in your respiratory secretions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 98132-4
- Short code
- SARS-CoV-2 ORF1a Resp Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- SARS-CoV-2 ORF1a 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 probe to detect the virus’s genetic material (RNA) through a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) process. A small sample from your nose or throat is collected and analyzed to identify the virus’s unique genetic signature, even if it’s present in low amounts.
When You Might Need This Test
This test is commonly used when you have symptoms of COVID-19 (e.g., fever, cough, shortness of breath) or if you’ve been exposed to someone with the virus. It may also be ordered as part of routine screening in high-risk settings, such as healthcare facilities or large gatherings.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll likely have a quick nasal or throat swab. The sample is then sent to a lab for processing. Results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours, depending on lab workflows.
What to Expect After the Test
After testing, you’ll receive a qualitative result indicating either a positive (virus detected) or negative (virus not detected) finding. Follow-up care may include isolation instructions, treatment recommendations, or further testing if needed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result strongly suggests an active COVID-19 infection and helps guide treatment decisions, such as isolation, antiviral medications, or monitoring for severe symptoms. A negative result means the virus was not detected in the sample at the time of testing, but reinfection or a false-negative result are possible. This test is critical for public health efforts to control the spread of the virus.
Short name
SARS-CoV-2 RNA Test (Respiratory)
Frequently asked questions
How accurate is this test?
What does a positive result mean for my health?
Can I get this test at home?
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