Rabies Virus Viral Load Quantitative Test
Short Name: Rabies Viral Load
Also known as: Rabies Virus PCR, Rabies Viral Load Test, Rabies RNA Quantification
Rabies Virus Viral Load Quantitative Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹6,000. Uses Real Time PCR on Saliva, Tissue, C.S.F., Conjunctiva swab samples. Results in Reports are typically delivered within 1 week after sample collection. You will receive a notification via email or WhatsApp when your report is ready.. 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 primary purpose of the Rabies Viral Load Quantitative Test is to detect the presence of rabies virus RNA and quantify the viral load in a patient's sample. This aids in confirming a diagnosis of rabies, especially in cases where clinical symptoms are ambiguous or when exposure history is unclear. Quantitative results are valuable for monitoring disease progression, evaluating the effectiveness of post-exposure prophylaxis, and guiding therapeutic decisions. Early and accurate diagnosis is critical because rabies is nearly always fatal once symptoms develop, but prompt post-exposure treatment can prevent the disease. This test is also useful in epidemiological surveillance and research settings.
- Test Code
- 6239
- CPT Code
- 87553
- ICD Code
- A82.9
- Price
- ₹6,000
- Sample Type
- Saliva, Tissue, C.S.F., Conjunctiva swab
- Result Time
- Reports are typically delivered within 1 week after sample collection. You will receive a notification via email or WhatsApp when your report is ready.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Real Time PCR
Sample Collection
No special preparation is required. However, inform your healthcare provider about any medications or recent vaccinations. A consent document must be signed before sample collection.
Method: Swab or aspiration
Laboratory Analysis
Sample collection involves taking a swab from the conjunctiva, saliva, or CSF (if clinically indicated). The procedure is quick and minimally invasive.
Report Delivery
No specific aftercare is needed. You can resume normal activities immediately. Results will be available within 1 week.
Timeline: Reports are typically delivered within 1 week after sample collection. You will receive a notification via email or WhatsApp when your report is ready.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The primary purpose of the Rabies Viral Load Quantitative Test is to detect the presence of rabies virus RNA and quantify the viral load in a patient's sample. This aids in confirming a diagnosis of rabies, especially in cases where clinical symptoms are ambiguous or when exposure history is unclear. Quantitative results are valuable for monitoring disease progression, evaluating the effectiveness of post-exposure prophylaxis, and guiding therapeutic decisions. Early and accurate diagnosis is critical because rabies is nearly always fatal once symptoms develop, but prompt post-exposure treatment can prevent the disease. This test is also useful in epidemiological surveillance and research settings.
How to Prepare
- Consent form must be signed before sample collection
- Bring any relevant clinical history of the patient
- Samples should be collected in sterile containers
- Transport samples to the laboratory immediately
- Avoid contamination of samples
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"Rabies is a fatal but preventable disease. Early diagnosis through viral load testing is critical for post-exposure prophylaxis and management. This test provides quantitative results to guide treatment decisions."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Insufficient sample volume
- Sample in inappropriate container
- Sample not transported within specified time
- Sample with visible contamination or hemolysis
- Improper labeling or missing consent form
Understanding Your Results
No rabies virus RNA detected
Rabies infection is unlikely, but if symptoms persist or exposure was high-risk, repeat testing may be considered.
Viral RNA detected below a certain threshold
Indicates active infection; early stage may have low viral load. Clinical correlation required.
Viral RNA detected above a certain threshold
Suggests advanced infection with high viral replication. Immediate medical intervention is critical.
Consult a doctor immediately if you have been bitten by an animal, especially a dog, or if you experience symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle weakness, or neurological signs. Early consultation can be life-saving.
Limitations
- ⚠A negative result does not completely rule out rabies, especially in early stages or if sample is not from the appropriate site
- ⚠Viral load may be undetectable in blood; saliva and CSF are preferred samples
- ⚠Test should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and exposure history
- ⚠Quantitative results may not correlate directly with disease severity or prognosis
- ⚠Molecular tests require specialized equipment and trained personnel
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minimal risk of bleeding or infection at the collection site
- ●Discomfort during sample collection
- ●Rare risk of CSF leak if lumbar puncture is performed
Interfering Factors
- ●Improper sample collection or handling may lead to false negatives
- ●Sample degradation due to delayed transport or improper storage
- ●Cross-contamination during collection or processing
- ●Inhibitors in the sample (e.g., blood, mucus) may affect PCR amplification
- ●Recent vaccination with live attenuated virus may cause false positives (rare)
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Rabies Virus Viral Load Quantitative Test | Rabies Antibody Test | Rabies Skin Biopsy Test | Rabies Saliva Test | Rabies Spinal Fluid Test |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Rabies Virus Viral Load Quantitative Test |
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