SARS-CoV-2 Genomic Sequence Detection in Plasma/Serum by Nucleic Acid Probe
This test checks for genetic material from the virus that causes COVID-19 in your blood plasma or serum. It helps determine if you have an active infection.
["Detects viral genetic material to guide treatment and monitor COVID-19 status."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 94767-1
- Short code
- SARS-CoV-2 S gene SerPl Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- SARS-CoV-2 S gene SerPl 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
- 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 looks for specific genetic sequences (nucleic acids) from the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. These sequences are unique to the virus and appear in your blood plasma or serum if you have an active infection. The probe used amplifies and identifies these sequences through a molecular detection method.
How the Test Works
This test uses a molecular technique to detect viral genetic material. A special probe binds to the virus’s genetic sequences, allowing the test to identify whether the virus is present in your blood. The result helps healthcare providers confirm or rule out an active COVID-19 infection.
When You Might Need This Test
You may need this test if you have symptoms of COVID-19, have been exposed to the virus, or are required for testing in a clinical or research setting. It is also used to monitor recovery or assess viral load in certain cases.
Preparation and Sample Collection
No special preparation is needed for this test. A blood sample is collected by a healthcare professional, and the plasma or serum portion is analyzed for viral genetic material. The test is typically performed on fresh or stored plasma/serum samples.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test plays a critical role in diagnosing active COVID-19 infections, guiding treatment decisions, and monitoring viral load. Positive results indicate the presence of the virus and may require isolation or specific treatments. Negative results can help confirm the absence of an active infection, though they do not rule out past exposure.
Short name
SARS-CoV-2 RNA Test (Plasma/Serum)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can this test detect COVID-19 in people who have already been vaccinated?
Is there any risk or side effect from having this blood test?
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