SARS-CoV-2 Nucleic Acid Test (RNA) by Qualitative Probe Detection (Saliva Specimen)
This test checks for genetic material from the virus that causes COVID-19 in your saliva. It helps determine if you may have an active infection.
["A COVID-19 RNA test may be used to screen or confirm infection, especially when symptoms or exposure risk is present."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 108180-1
- Short code
- SARS-CoV-2 RNA Spec Ql NAA+n-prb
- Synonyms
- SARS-CoV-2 RNA Spec 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
The test detects the virus’s RNA (ribonucleic acid) using a probe that binds specifically to its genetic material. A positive result means the virus’s genetic material was found in your saliva sample, suggesting an active infection.
When You Might Need This Test
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fever, cough, or fatigue, or if you’ve been exposed to someone with COVID-19. It’s also used for screening in high-risk settings or before certain procedures.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a saliva sample (like spitting into a tube) at a clinic or lab. Avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes before testing if instructed.
What to Expect During the Test
The test is quick and painless. You’ll likely receive results within hours or days, depending on the lab’s processing time. Results are usually reported as positive (infection present), negative (no infection detected), or inconclusive.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result indicates active COVID-19 infection and may guide treatment decisions, isolation recommendations, or contact tracing. A negative result means no detectable virus RNA in your sample at the time of testing, but reinfection or false negatives are possible. Follow-up testing may be advised if symptoms persist or exposure continues.
Short name
SARS-CoV-2 RNA Test (Saliva)
Frequently asked questions
How accurate is this test?
What does a positive result mean?
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