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Rabies Detection RNA Qualitative PCR Test Humans Test

DNA Labs India | ISO 9001:2015 Certified

Rabies Detection RNA Qualitative PCR Test Humans Test

Short Name: Rabies RNA PCR

Also known as: Rabies PCR, Rabies RNA Detection, Rabies Viral Load Qualitative

Rabies Detection RNA Qualitative PCR Test Humans Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹6,000. Uses Real-Time PCR on Saliva, CSF, Brain tissue, Conjunctival swab samples. Results in Reports are delivered within 7 working days via email and WhatsApp.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Qualitative PCR🏠 Home Collection

✍️ Written By

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Dr SHAILAJA RAGHUNATH MURDESHWAR

Dr SHAILAJA RAGHUNATH MURDESHWAR

Consultant Physician · Reg: 8052

Last reviewed: September 7, 2026

Overview

The purpose of this test is to qualitatively detect the presence of rabies virus RNA in clinical specimens. It is used to confirm rabies infection in patients presenting with encephalitis or a history of animal bite, and to support clinical decisions regarding post-exposure prophylaxis. Early detection can be life-saving.

Test Code
6238
CPT Code
87798
ICD Code
A82.9
Price
₹6,000
Sample Type
Saliva, CSF, Brain tissue, Conjunctival swab
Result Time
Reports are delivered within 7 working days via email and WhatsApp.
Fasting Required
No
Method
Real-Time PCR
Step 1

Sample Collection

No fasting required. For saliva samples, rinse mouth with plain water 30 minutes before collection. Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking for at least 30 minutes prior to saliva collection.

Method: Swab or sterile container

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

Sample collection is quick and minimally invasive. For saliva, you will be asked to spit into a sterile container. For CSF, a lumbar puncture will be performed by a healthcare professional.

Step 3

Report Delivery

No special precautions. You can resume normal activities immediately. The sample will be transported to the laboratory for analysis.

Timeline: Reports are delivered within 7 working days via email and WhatsApp.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:No special preparation required. For saliva, rinse mouth with water 30 minutes before collection.
2
During the Test:Sample collection is quick. For saliva, you will spit into a tube. For CSF, a lumbar puncture is performed by a doctor.
3
After the Test:You can resume normal activities. The sample will be processed in the lab.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

The purpose of this test is to qualitatively detect the presence of rabies virus RNA in clinical specimens. It is used to confirm rabies infection in patients presenting with encephalitis or a history of animal bite, and to support clinical decisions regarding post-exposure prophylaxis. Early detection can be life-saving.

How to Prepare

  • Saliva: Rinse mouth with water 30 minutes before collection, then collect saliva in a sterile container.
  • CSF: Collected by a healthcare professional via lumbar puncture.
  • Brain tissue: Collected post-mortem by a pathologist.
  • Conjunctival swab: Swab the conjunctiva gently using a sterile swab.

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (General Medicine) · Reg. No. 8052

"Rabies is a medical emergency. Early RNA detection is critical for post-exposure prophylaxis decisions. This test provides high sensitivity for clinical management."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeSaliva, CSF, Brain tissue, Conjunctival swab
Sample Volume0.5 mL (saliva/CSF) or as required
ContainerSterile collection tube / swab
Collection MethodSwab or sterile container

Sample Stability

Saliva: Stable for 24 hours at 2-8°C, for 1 week at -20°C
CSF: Stable for 48 hours at 2-8°C, for 1 month at -80°C
Brain tissue: Stable for 1 week at -80°C
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Insufficient sample volume
  • Improper labeling
  • Sample received in inappropriate container
  • Sample hemolyzed or contaminated

Understanding Your Results

The result of the Rabies RNA Qualitative PCR Test is reported as 'Detected' or 'Not Detected'. A 'Detected' result indicates the presence of rabies viral RNA, confirming infection. A 'Not Detected' result suggests absence of detectable viral RNA, but does not exclude rabies, especially if the sample was collected early or from an inappropriate site. Clinical correlation is essential.
📊

Detected

Rabies virus RNA is present. This confirms rabies infection. Immediate medical management and supportive care are required. Post-exposure prophylaxis may not be effective once symptoms appear.

📊

Not Detected

No rabies virus RNA detected in the sample. However, this does not rule out rabies. If clinical suspicion remains high, repeat testing or alternative samples (e.g., CSF) may be considered.

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

Consult your doctor immediately if you have been bitten by an animal and experience symptoms such as fever, headache, excessive salivation, hydrophobia, or confusion. Also, consult if you have a positive test result for rabies RNA.

Limitations

  • ⚠Negative result does not rule out rabies; clinical correlation required
  • ⚠Test may be negative in early stages or if sample is not collected from appropriate site
  • ⚠Qualitative test does not quantify viral load
  • ⚠Brain tissue is the gold standard sample but is only available post-mortem

Risks & Considerations

  • ●No significant risks for saliva or swab collection.
  • ●Lumbar puncture (for CSF) may cause headache, infection, or bleeding, but is rare.

Interfering Factors

  • ●Contamination of saliva with food or oral bacteria
  • ●Improper sample collection or storage
  • ●Inhibitors in the sample (e.g., hemoglobin, mucin)
  • ●Recent antiviral therapy may reduce viral load

Compare With Similar Tests

TestRabies Detection RNA Qualitative PCR Test HumansRabies Antibody (IgG/IgM) TestRabies Antigen Detection (DFA)Rabies Virus Isolation
ComparisonRabies Detection RNA Qualitative PCR Test Humans

Frequently Asked Questions

Is fasting required for the Rabies RNA Qualitative PCR Test in India?
No, fasting is not required. However, for saliva samples, rinse your mouth with plain water 30 minutes before collection to avoid contamination.
Do you provide help in understanding my test results?
Yes, we offer free post-test telephonic genetic counseling with certified experts during working hours. Call 09395142800 for a detailed explanation of your rabies PCR report and guidance on next steps.
How soon will I receive my ISO-certified digital report?
Reports are typically delivered within 7 working days via email and WhatsApp. You can also download them from our secure patient portal.
Is there an extra charge for home collection in my city?
No, home sample collection is completely free of charge across all our 300+ service locations. The total price remains ?6,000 inclusive of all costs.
How can I book this test via WhatsApp or Phone?
Simply call 09395142800 or send a message on WhatsApp with your name, location, and preferred date. Our team will confirm the free home collection slot instantly.
What is the cost of the Rabies RNA PCR test?
The test costs ?6,000, which includes home sample collection and digital report. No hidden charges.
Which samples are accepted for this test?
Saliva, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), brain tissue, and conjunctival swabs are accepted. The choice depends on the clinical scenario.
How accurate is this test?
The test uses Real-Time PCR, which is highly sensitive and specific for detecting rabies RNA. However, a negative result does not completely rule out rabies, and clinical correlation is essential.
Can this test be done during the incubation period?
The test may be negative during the incubation period as the virus may not be present in saliva or CSF until symptoms appear. It is most useful when symptoms are present.
Is this test available in my city?
We offer free home collection in 300+ cities across India. Please call 09395142800 to confirm availability in your location.
Do I need a doctor's prescription for this test?
While a prescription is not mandatory, we recommend consulting a doctor for proper clinical evaluation and interpretation of results.
What should I do if my result is positive?
If your result is positive, seek immediate medical attention. Rabies is a medical emergency, and supportive care is crucial. Your doctor will guide you on the next steps.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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For Hospitals & Clinics

Reference 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.

LIMS Integration

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.

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