SARS-CoV-2 Nucleic Acid Detection in Serum/Plasma by Probe-Based Assay
This test checks for genetic material from the virus that causes COVID-19 in your blood. It helps determine if you’ve been infected recently, even if you don’t have symptoms.
["Assists in diagnosing active COVID-19 infection from blood samples."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 60534-5
- Short code
- SARS-CoV RNA SerPl Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- SARS-CoV RNA 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
How the Test Works
The test uses a specialized probe to detect the virus’s genetic material (RNA) in your serum or plasma. This is done through a molecular process that identifies the virus’s unique genetic sequence, confirming infection if present.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a blood draw at a clinic or lab, similar to other blood tests. If you’re at home, follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for collecting a blood sample safely.
When This Test Might Be Ordered
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms of COVID-19 (e.g., fever, cough, fatigue), have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, or are in a setting where testing is routinely required (e.g., travel, workplace). It can also be used for monitoring in certain clinical settings.
Limitations and Considerations
This test detects recent infection and may not show results immediately after exposure. False negatives can occur if the sample is taken too early or if the virus is present in low amounts. Results should always be interpreted by a healthcare provider.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results indicate active COVID-19 infection and guide treatment decisions, isolation recommendations, or further testing. Negative results suggest no recent infection, but they do not rule out past exposure or immunity. Results help monitor disease progression or recovery in clinical settings.
Short name
COVID-19 Nucleic Acid Test (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
Why might I need 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