DNA Viral Metagenome Sequencing Data Analysis Test
Short Name: Viral Metagenome Seq
Also known as: Viral Metagenomics, Shotgun Metagenomic Sequencing for Viruses, Viral NGS
DNA Viral Metagenome Sequencing Data Analysis Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹18,000. Uses Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), Metagenomic Analysis on Extracted DNA samples. Results in Results are typically available within 4 weeks after the sample reaches the laboratory. You will be notified via email or WhatsApp when the report is ready.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr SHAILAJA RAGHUNATH MURDESHWAR
Consultant Physician · Reg: 8052
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The purpose of DNA viral metagenome sequencing data analysis is to identify the specific virus or viruses causing an infection, especially when routine diagnostic tests are inconclusive. It helps in diagnosing viral infections, guiding targeted treatment, monitoring viral load, and understanding the epidemiology of viral diseases. This test is also valuable in outbreak investigations and for detecting novel or emerging viruses.
- Test Code
- 6380
- CPT Code
- N/A
- ICD Code
- N/A
- Price
- ₹18,000
- Sample Type
- Extracted DNA
- Result Time
- Results are typically available within 4 weeks after the sample reaches the laboratory. You will be notified via email or WhatsApp when the report is ready.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), Metagenomic Analysis
Sample Collection
No special preparation is required. Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, especially antiviral drugs. The sample (blood or tissue) will be collected by a trained phlebotomist.
Method: Blood or tissue sample (DNA extracted)
Laboratory Analysis
A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm. If a tissue sample is needed, it will be collected by a healthcare professional. The procedure is quick and minimally invasive.
Report Delivery
You can resume normal activities immediately. There are no restrictions after sample collection. The sample will be sent to the laboratory for analysis.
Timeline: Results are typically available within 4 weeks after the sample reaches the laboratory. You will be notified via email or WhatsApp when the report is ready.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of DNA viral metagenome sequencing data analysis is to identify the specific virus or viruses causing an infection, especially when routine diagnostic tests are inconclusive. It helps in diagnosing viral infections, guiding targeted treatment, monitoring viral load, and understanding the epidemiology of viral diseases. This test is also valuable in outbreak investigations and for detecting novel or emerging viruses.
How to Prepare
- Ensure the sample is collected in a sterile container
- Label the sample with patient ID and date
- Transport the sample to the lab within 24 hours if possible
- Maintain appropriate temperature (2-8°C) during transport
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr SHAILAJA RAGHUNATH MURDESHWAR — MBBS, MD (General Medicine) · Reg. No. 8052
"Metagenomic sequencing is a powerful tool for identifying elusive viral pathogens, especially in immunocompromised patients or when conventional tests are negative. It provides a comprehensive view of the viral landscape, enabling targeted therapy and better patient outcomes."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Hemolyzed or clotted blood sample
- Insufficient DNA quantity or quality
- Improperly labeled or contaminated sample
- Sample not stored at appropriate temperature
Understanding Your Results
No viral pathogen identified. Consider non-infectious causes or RNA viruses.
Recommendation: Further testing may be needed based on clinical suspicion.
The detected virus is likely the cause of the infection.
Recommendation: Initiate targeted antiviral therapy and monitor response.
Co-infection with multiple viruses is present.
Recommendation: Treat each virus appropriately and consider immunocompromised status.
May represent an emerging pathogen or contamination.
Recommendation: Confirm with additional testing and consult infectious disease specialist.
Consult your doctor if you have persistent fever, unexplained symptoms, or if you are immunocompromised and suspect a viral infection. Early diagnosis can lead to better outcomes.
Limitations
- ⚠May not detect RNA viruses (this test is DNA-based; RNA viruses require separate RT-PCR or RNA sequencing)
- ⚠Requires sufficient viral DNA in the sample; low viral load may be missed
- ⚠Results may include commensal or environmental viruses not causing disease
- ⚠Interpretation requires clinical correlation; not a standalone diagnostic tool
- ⚠Turnaround time is longer (4 weeks) compared to targeted PCR
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minimal risk of bleeding or bruising at the needle site
- ●Rare risk of infection at the collection site
- ●No radiation exposure or other significant risks
Interfering Factors
- ●Low viral load in the sample may lead to false-negative results
- ●Contamination with host DNA can reduce sensitivity
- ●Prior antiviral therapy may suppress viral replication
- ●Sample degradation due to improper storage or transport
- ●Bioinformatics analysis limitations with novel or divergent viruses
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | DNA Viral Metagenome Sequencing Data Analysis | PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) | Viral Culture | Serology (Antibody Test) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | DNA Viral Metagenome Sequencing Data Analysis | PCR is targeted and detects a specific virus, while metagenomic sequencing is unbiased and can detect any virus. PCR is faster and cheaper but requires a known target. | Viral culture requires live virus and takes longer, while metagenomic sequencing detects viral DNA directly without culture. Sequencing is more sensitive and can detect non-cultivable viruses. | Serology detects immune response, not the virus itself, and may be negative in early infection. Metagenomic sequencing detects the virus directly, allowing early diagnosis. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is DNA viral metagenome sequencing?
How is this test different from a PCR test?
What sample is needed?
Do I need to fast before the test?
How long does it take to get results?
Can this test detect RNA viruses?
Is home sample collection available?
What is the cost of the test?
Who should get this test?
Are there any risks?
How should I interpret the results?
Is the test covered by insurance?
Related Tests
FCGR2B Gene Malaria, resistance to NGS Genetic Test
₹20,000ICAM1 Gene Malaria, cerebral, susceptibility to NGS Genetic Test
₹20,000ITS Sequencing
₹5,600IL12RB2 Gene Atypical Mycobacterial infection, IL12RB2 related NGS Genetic Test
₹20,000Parvovirus B19 Qualitative PCR Test
₹5,000Respiratory Panel 5 Test
₹4,500Reference Laboratory Services
We serve as a reference laboratory for hospitals and clinics across India. Send samples from your facility with same-day pickup, priority processing, and results delivered through our online portal. Competitive institutional pricing available.
Your Data Privacy
Your medical data is protected under Indian law.
✓ Stored in India: All patient records are stored on servers located in India. No data is transferred outside the country.
✓ DPDP Act Compliant: Under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023, you can request deletion of your records at any time by contacting support.
Book Your Test
Enter your details and we'll connect you within 15 minutes.