COVID Xpert Panel Test
Short Name: COVID Xpert Panel
Also known as: COVID Xpert Comprehensive Panel, SARS-CoV-2 Xpert Panel, COVID Diagnostic Panel with Inflammatory Markers, COVID Xpress Panel Test
COVID Xpert Panel Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹5,499. Uses Xpert Xpress SARS-CoV-2 (CB-NAAT / Real-Time PCR), Automated Hematology Analyzer (CBC with NLR), Westergren Method (ESR), Immunoturbidimetry (CRP), CLIA / Enzymatic Assay (LDH), Chemiluminescence Immunoassay (Ferritin) on 3 mL whole blood in Lavender Top (EDTA) tube, 5 mL serum from SST, Nasopharyngeal swab / Nasal wash swab / Aspirate in Viral Transport Medium (VTM) samples. Results in Same day report for samples received by 11:00 AM. Results delivered via online portal, email, and WhatsApp.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal
Consultant Microbiologist · Reg: 27670
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The COVID Xpert Panel serves the dual purpose of confirming active SARS-CoV-2 infection through molecular testing and assessing the severity of the associated inflammatory response through hematological and biochemical markers. The Xpert Xpress SARS-CoV-2 component provides qualitative detection of the virus, while CBC, NLR, ESR, CRP, LDH, and Ferritin help evaluate immune activation, systemic inflammation, tissue damage risk, and disease prognosis. This integrated approach aids clinicians in early diagnosis, severity stratification, treatment planning, and monitoring of COVID-19 patients.
- Test Code
- 362
- CPT Code
- 87635
- ICD Code
- U07.1
- Price
- ₹5,499
- Sample Type
- 3 mL whole blood in Lavender Top (EDTA) tube, 5 mL serum from SST, Nasopharyngeal swab / Nasal wash swab / Aspirate in Viral Transport Medium (VTM)
- Result Time
- Same day report for samples received by 11:00 AM. Results delivered via online portal, email, and WhatsApp.
- Fasting Required
- Yes (8 hours)
- Method
- Xpert Xpress SARS-CoV-2 (CB-NAAT / Real-Time PCR), Automated Hematology Analyzer (CBC with NLR), Westergren Method (ESR), Immunoturbidimetry (CRP), CLIA / Enzymatic Assay (LDH), Chemiluminescence Immunoassay (Ferritin)
Sample Collection
A duly filled COVID-19 Clinical Information Form (Form 44) or SRF ID as mandated by the Government of India is mandatory. Overnight fasting of at least 8 hours is preferred for accurate blood-based marker results. Inform the phlebotomist about any current medications, recent COVID-19 vaccination, or prior COVID-19 diagnosis.
Method: Venipuncture for blood samples; Nasopharyngeal / Nasal swab collection by trained phlebotomist
Laboratory Analysis
A trained phlebotomist will collect 3 mL of whole blood in a Lavender Top (EDTA) tube and 5 mL of blood in a Serum Separator Tube (SST) via venipuncture. A nasopharyngeal swab, nasal wash, or aspirate specimen will also be collected and placed in a special Viral Transport Medium (VTM). Full PPE protocol is followed during sample collection.
Report Delivery
Samples are labeled and transported under refrigerated conditions. DO NOT FREEZE any samples. Blood and swab specimens are processed in a state-of-the-art laboratory following strict biosafety protocols. Results are typically available the same day for samples received by 11 AM.
Timeline: Same day report for samples received by 11:00 AM. Results delivered via online portal, email, and WhatsApp.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The COVID Xpert Panel serves the dual purpose of confirming active SARS-CoV-2 infection through molecular testing and assessing the severity of the associated inflammatory response through hematological and biochemical markers. The Xpert Xpress SARS-CoV-2 component provides qualitative detection of the virus, while CBC, NLR, ESR, CRP, LDH, and Ferritin help evaluate immune activation, systemic inflammation, tissue damage risk, and disease prognosis. This integrated approach aids clinicians in early diagnosis, severity stratification, treatment planning, and monitoring of COVID-19 patients.
How to Prepare
- Overnight fasting of at least 8 hours is preferred before blood sample collection
- A duly filled COVID-19 Clinical Information Form (Form 44) or SRF ID as mandated by GOI is mandatory
- Inform the phlebotomist about any current medications, recent vaccinations, or prior COVID-19 diagnosis
- Avoid eating, drinking, smoking, or chewing gum 30 minutes before nasopharyngeal swab collection
- Wear a mask during sample collection and follow all safety protocols
- Blood samples and swab specimens must be collected on the same visit
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"The COVID Xpert Panel is one of the most comprehensive diagnostic tests available for evaluating active SARS-CoV-2 infection alongside key inflammatory and hematological markers. By combining Xpert Xpress SARS-CoV-2 qualitative RT-PCR with CBC, NLR, ESR, CRP, LDH, and Ferritin, this panel enables clinicians to not only confirm COVID-19 infection but also assess the severity of the inflammatory response and potential for disease progression. The Xpert Xpress platform delivers rapid molecular results using the GeneXpert system, which is WHO-prequalified and ICMR-approved. The inclusion of NLR (Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio) has been shown in multiple studies to be an early predictor of disease severity in COVID-19 patients. Similarly, elevated ferritin and LDH levels are associated with cytokine storm and poor prognosis. I recommend this panel for patients presenting with respiratory symptoms, known exposure to confirmed COVID-19 cases, pre-surgical screening, and for monitoring patients with moderate-to-severe disease. Early and comprehensive testing remains the cornerstone of effective COVID-19 management."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Hemolyzed or lipemic blood samples
- Insufficient sample volume in any collection tube
- Unlabeled or mislabeled specimens
- Specimens received without the mandatory COVID-19 Clinical Information Form (Form 44) or SRF ID
- Frozen specimens (samples must not be frozen)
- Swab specimens not collected in Viral Transport Medium (VTM)
- Specimens received beyond the acceptable stability window
Understanding Your Results
Active SARS-CoV-2 infection confirmed. Patient is likely infectious. Isolation, contact tracing, and clinical management should be initiated as per ICMR/WHO guidelines.
No active SARS-CoV-2 infection detected in the sample. If clinical suspicion remains high (symptoms present, known exposure), repeat testing after 24-48 hours or consider alternative sample sites. A single negative test does not completely rule out infection.
Indicates a hyperinflammatory response consistent with moderate-to-severe COVID-19. These markers together are associated with increased risk of ICU admission, mechanical ventilation, and poor prognosis. Close monitoring and aggressive management are warranted.
Lymphopenia combined with elevated LDH is a hallmark of severe COVID-19, indicating significant immune suppression and tissue damage. This combination is an independent predictor of disease severity and mortality.
If RT-PCR is positive with normal inflammatory markers, this may indicate early or mild infection. Clinical monitoring should continue as markers may rise during the disease course. If RT-PCR is negative with normal markers, active COVID-19 infection is unlikely.
Consult a doctor immediately if: you test positive for SARS-CoV-2; you experience worsening symptoms such as persistent high fever, difficulty breathing, chest pain or tightness, bluish discoloration of lips or face, confusion, or inability to stay awake; your inflammatory markers (CRP, LDH, Ferritin, NLR) are significantly elevated; or if you have underlying comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, lung disease, or immunocompromised conditions. Early medical intervention can significantly reduce the risk of severe complications.
Limitations
- ⚠A negative RT-PCR result does not completely rule out SARS-CoV-2 infection, especially if collected very early in the infection course or if specimen quality is suboptimal
- ⚠Inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR, LDH, Ferritin) are non-specific and may be elevated due to conditions other than COVID-19
- ⚠This test is designed for diagnostic purposes and should not be used alone for treatment decisions without clinical correlation
- ⚠The RT-PCR component detects current active infection and cannot confirm past infection or immunity
- ⚠Cross-contamination during specimen collection may affect RT-PCR accuracy
Risks & Considerations
- ●Mild pain or bruising at the blood draw site
- ●Temporary nasal discomfort or sneezing after nasopharyngeal swab collection
- ●Rarely, minor bleeding from the venipuncture site
- ●False-negative RT-PCR result if collected too early in infection or with improper technique
Interfering Factors
- ●Hemolyzed or lipemic serum samples may affect CRP, LDH, and Ferritin results
- ●Recent blood transfusion may alter CBC parameters
- ●Concurrent bacterial infections may elevate WBC, CRP, ESR, and NLR independently of COVID-19
- ●Anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroids may suppress inflammatory markers
- ●Improper swab collection technique may yield false-negative RT-PCR results
- ●Sample stored beyond recommended stability period may yield unreliable results
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | COVID Xpert Panel Test | COVID-19 RT-PCR Test | COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test | COVID-19 Antibody Test (IgG/IgM) | COVID-19 CRP and D-Dimer Panel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | COVID Xpert Panel Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the COVID Xpert Panel Test?
How much does the COVID Xpert Panel Test cost?
What samples are required for the COVID Xpert Panel Test?
Is fasting required for the COVID Xpert Panel Test?
What documents are mandatory for this test?
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What does a positive SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR result mean?
What do elevated inflammatory markers (CRP, LDH, Ferritin, NLR) indicate in this test?
Can a negative RT-PCR result in this panel rule out COVID-19?
Is home sample collection available for the COVID Xpert Panel Test?
Is the COVID Xpert Panel Test approved by ICMR and WHO?
Who should get the COVID Xpert Panel Test?
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