SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Nucleic Acid Detection by Qualitative PCR
This test checks for genetic material from the virus that causes COVID-19 in a sample collected from your respiratory tract. It helps determine if you may have an active infection.
["This test helps doctors diagnose COVID-19 and guide treatment decisions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 94315-9
- Short code
- SARS-rel CoV E gene Spec Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- SARS-rel CoV E gene Spec 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 special probe to detect the virus’s genetic material (RNA) in your sample. If the virus is present, the test will confirm it through a molecular process called polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
What to Expect Before the Test
You may receive a nasal or throat swab to collect a sample. The test is usually done in a lab setting and results are typically available within 24–72 hours, depending on the lab’s process.
When This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fever, cough, or shortness of breath, or if you’ve been exposed to someone with COVID-19. It’s also used for screening in high-risk settings.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means the virus was detected in your sample, suggesting you may have an active infection. A negative result means the virus was not detected at the time of testing, but you could still be infected.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test plays a critical role in identifying active COVID-19 infections, supporting public health efforts to control outbreaks, and guiding medical decisions about isolation, treatment, and vaccination strategies.
Short name
COVID-19 RNA Test
Frequently asked questions
Why did my doctor order this test?
What does a positive result mean for my health?
How long does it take to get results?
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