Respiratory Panel 8 Test
Short Name: Respiratory Panel 8
Also known as: Respiratory Viral Panel, Respiratory Pathogen Panel 8
Respiratory Panel 8 Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹18,000. Uses Real Time PCR, Multiplex PCR on Throat swab / Nasal swab / Sputum / Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid samples. Results in Samples accepted Mon/Wed/Fri by 9 am; reports are generated on Tue/Thu/Sat.. 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 purpose of the Respiratory Panel 8 Test is to provide rapid identification of the most common viral and atypical bacterial causes of upper and lower respiratory tract infections. A single swab or respiratory fluid sample is tested by RT-PCR for multiple pathogens simultaneously. The result helps distinguish viral infections that do not require antibiotics from atypical bacterial infections that may need specific antimicrobial therapy.
- Test Code
- 3598
- Price
- ₹18,000
- Sample Type
- Throat swab / Nasal swab / Sputum / Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid
- Result Time
- Samples accepted Mon/Wed/Fri by 9 am; reports are generated on Tue/Thu/Sat.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Real Time PCR, Multiplex PCR
Sample Collection
No special preparation is required. Inform the clinician about current symptoms and any recent antibiotic use.
Method: Nasopharyngeal/throat swab; expectorated sputum; bronchoalveolar lavage by clinician
Laboratory Analysis
A swab is gently inserted into the nose or throat to collect respiratory secretions. For lower respiratory tract symptoms, sputum or bronchoalveolar lavage may be collected.
Report Delivery
There are no activity restrictions after sample collection. The sample is transported to the laboratory in appropriate transport medium and under the required cold chain.
Timeline: Samples accepted Mon/Wed/Fri by 9 am; reports are generated on Tue/Thu/Sat.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of the Respiratory Panel 8 Test is to provide rapid identification of the most common viral and atypical bacterial causes of upper and lower respiratory tract infections. A single swab or respiratory fluid sample is tested by RT-PCR for multiple pathogens simultaneously. The result helps distinguish viral infections that do not require antibiotics from atypical bacterial infections that may need specific antimicrobial therapy.
How to Prepare
- Use throat/nasal swabs in the special collection medium provided by LPL.
- Collect 5 mL (3 mL min.) sputum or bronchoalveolar lavage fluid in a sterile screw-capped container.
- Ship refrigerated or frozen as per sample stability.
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"A positive result for Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydia pneumoniae or Bordetella pertussis may require targeted antibiotic therapy. Consultation with a physician or pulmonary specialist is recommended for clinical correlation and treatment planning."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Improperly labelled specimen
- Inappropriate transport medium
- Insufficient sample volume
- Sample stored beyond stated stability period
Understanding Your Results
Positive for Influenza A or B
Indicates acute influenza virus infection. Early antiviral therapy may be considered by the treating physician.
Positive for RSV A/B
Suggests respiratory syncytial virus infection, especially in children and older adults.
Positive for Mycoplasma pneumoniae / Chlamydia pneumoniae / Bordetella pertussis
Supports atypical bacterial or Bordetella infection; targeted antibiotics may be considered after clinical assessment.
Not Detected for all panel targets
No included pathogen was detected. Further evaluation may be needed if symptoms persist.
Consult your doctor if symptoms persist, fever is high, breathing difficulty occurs, or the result is positive for an organism that may require treatment.
Limitations
- ⚠This panel does not detect all respiratory pathogens; negative results do not rule out infection by organisms not included in the panel
- ⚠The panel is not designed to detect SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19)
- ⚠Qualitative results may not distinguish between viable infection and residual nucleic acid in some clinical contexts
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minimal discomfort during swab collection
- ●Transient gagging or tearing
- ●Mild throat or nasal irritation
Interfering Factors
- ●Antibiotic use before sample collection may reduce detection of bacterial pathogens
- ●Sample collection outside the early phase of illness may yield false-negative results
- ●Specimen transport delay or improper storage may degrade viral RNA/DNA
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Respiratory Panel 8 Test?
What pathogens are covered in this panel?
Who should take this test?
What sample is needed for the Respiratory Panel 8 Test?
Is fasting required before this test?
What is the cost of the Respiratory Panel 8 Test at DNA Labs India?
Does DNA Labs India provide home sample collection?
When will I get my report?
Can this test detect COVID-19?
What does a positive result mean?
What does a negative result mean?
What is the sample stability for this test?
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