Serum/plasma probe for respiratory viral nucleic acid detection (qualitative)
This test checks for the presence of viruses commonly linked to respiratory infections, such as rhinovirus, coronavirus, influenza, or respiratory syncytial virus, using a sample of your blood serum or plasma.
["Helps identify potential viral causes of colds, flu, or other respiratory symptoms."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 94366-2
- Short code
- S pyo DNA Lower resp Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- S pyo DNA Lower resp Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- coagulation
- 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
This test detects genetic material (nucleic acids) from respiratory viruses. It does not measure virus levels or severity but confirms if a virus is present in your blood or plasma. Results are qualitative (positive or negative) and may not indicate the exact type of virus.
Why You Might Need This Test
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like coughing, sore throat, fever, or shortness of breath, especially if you’re unsure about the cause. It’s often used in settings where rapid diagnosis is important, such as urgent care or hospital settings.
How the Test Works
A small blood sample is taken from your arm and sent to a lab. The lab uses a specialized probe to detect viral genetic material. The test is quick and can provide results in hours or less, depending on the lab’s process.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a slight bruise or discomfort at the injection site, but this usually fades quickly. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your provider know before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Viral Respiratory Pathogen Panel (Qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
How long will I get my results?
This test detects common respiratory viruses, but it may not catch every possible virus. If symptoms persist or worsen, further testing may be recommended.
Can I take 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