
Precision in Pandemic Response: The Role of SARS-CoV-2 Real-Time PCR Testing for COVID-19
Govt. Price: 2000/- Material Cost + Service Charge: 700/- The COVID-19 RT-PCR Test is a molecular diagnostic test that detects the genetic material (RNA) of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. A sample is collected from the nose or throat using a swab, which is then processed in a laboratory using specialized equipment. RT-PCR is highly accurate and considered the gold standard for detecting COVID-19 infection.
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How our test process works!
Overview
Full Name:
Real-Time Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) for SARS-CoV-2
Purpose:
Detects the presence of viral RNA from the SARS-CoV-2 virus — confirms active infection.
Highly sensitive and specific, especially during early stages of infection.
Principle:
Viral RNA is extracted from a clinical sample, reverse-transcribed into DNA, and amplified using PCR. Fluorescent markers indicate the presence of specific viral genes (e.g., N, E, RdRp, or ORF1ab genes).
Risk Assessment
- Individuals with symptoms of COVID-19 (e.g., fever, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, anosmia)
- Close contacts of confirmed cases
- Healthcare workers or high-risk populations
- Before hospital admission, surgery, or international travel
- Surveillance testing in outbreak settings
- Return-to-work clearance in some settings
Normal Range
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Negative for SARS-CoV-2 RNA
A "normal" result means no detectable viral RNA, i.e., not currently infected or viral load below detection threshold.
Interpretation of Results
| Result | Interpretation |
| Positive | SARS-CoV-2 RNA detected — active infection confirmed |
| Negative | No viral RNA detected — no active infection (but may be early or late in course) |
| Inconclusive/Invalid | Test failed or ambiguous result — repeat testing recommended |
Cycle threshold (Ct) value may be reported:
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Low Ct (<25) = High viral load
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High Ct (>30–35) = Lower viral load or late infection phase
(Note: Ct values are not standardized between labs and are not always reported clinically)
Sample Type
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Preferred Samples:
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Nasopharyngeal swab (gold standard)
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Oropharyngeal swab
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Other Possible Samples:
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Nasal swab, mid-turbinate swab
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Saliva (in some protocols)
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Lower respiratory tract samples (e.g., sputum, BAL) in severe cases
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Frequently Asked Question
SARS CoV -2 REAL TIME PCR (COVID-19)
Precision in Pandemic Response: The Role of SARS-CoV-2 Real-Time PCR Testing for COVID-19
Govt. Price: 2000/- Material Cost + Service Charge: 700/- The COVID-19 RT-PCR Test is a molecular diagnostic test that detects the genetic material (RNA) of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. A sample is collected from the nose or throat using a swab, which is then processed in a laboratory using specialized equipment. RT-PCR is highly accurate and considered the gold standard for detecting COVID-19 infection.
Covid Safety
Assured
Free Report
Counselling
