SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Qualitative Real Time RT PCR Test
Short Name: COVID-19 RT PCR Test
Also known as: COVID-19 PCR Test, Coronavirus RT PCR Test, SARS-CoV-2 PCR Test, COVID-19 Molecular Test
SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Qualitative Real Time RT PCR Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹1,404. Uses Real Time RT-PCR on Oropharyngeal and Nasopharyngeal Swabs / ET secretions / BAL / Sputum in special viral transport medium (VTM) available from LPL samples. Results in Reports will be available within 24 hours after the sample is received in the testing laboratory.. 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 this qualitative test is to determine whether SARS-CoV-2 RNA is present in the respiratory sample. It is used to diagnose active COVID-19 infection and support clinical and public health decisions.
- Test Code
- 3626
- ICD Code
- U07.1
- Price
- ₹1,404
- Sample Type
- Oropharyngeal and Nasopharyngeal Swabs / ET secretions / BAL / Sputum in special viral transport medium (VTM) available from LPL
- Result Time
- Reports will be available within 24 hours after the sample is received in the testing laboratory.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Real Time RT-PCR
Sample Collection
No fasting is required. Please carry the duly filled Covid-19 Clinical Information Form / ID as mandated by GOI. Inform your physician about relevant travel and contact history.
Method: Nasopharyngeal/Oropharyngeal swab or other respiratory specimen
Laboratory Analysis
A trained healthcare professional will collect the respiratory sample using a nasal/throat swab or other appropriate specimen. You may feel mild discomfort or gagging during the procedure.
Report Delivery
The sample is placed in the special viral transport medium and shipped refrigerated to the laboratory. Your report will be delivered within 24 hours after the sample arrives at the testing lab.
Timeline: Reports will be available within 24 hours after the sample is received in the testing laboratory.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of this qualitative test is to determine whether SARS-CoV-2 RNA is present in the respiratory sample. It is used to diagnose active COVID-19 infection and support clinical and public health decisions.
How to Prepare
- Carry the duly filled Covid-19 Clinical Information Form / ID as mandated by GOI.
- No fasting is required for this test.
- Sample should be collected in the special viral transport medium available from LPL.
- Ship refrigerated in the special transport box available from LPL.
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"Early molecular diagnosis is critical in controlling COVID-19 transmission. A positive RT-PCR result should prompt immediate isolation and clinical evaluation, while a negative result should always be correlated with the clinical picture."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Missing mandatory Covid-19 Clinical Information Form / ID as mandated by GOI.
- Sample not in the specified viral transport medium.
- Inappropriate, insufficient or leaked specimen.
- Sample received without proper cold chain transport.
- Unlabeled or incompletely labeled specimen.
Understanding Your Results
Detected
SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected. This indicates active COVID-19 infection. Isolate and consult a physician for further clinical guidance.
Not Detected
SARS-CoV-2 RNA was not detected. This does not completely exclude COVID-19. Clinical correlation and repeat testing may be needed if symptoms persist.
Invalid
The test could not be completed due to sample or technical issues. A fresh sample should be collected and the test repeated.
Consult a physician immediately if you develop symptoms such as fever, cough, shortness of breath, loss of taste or smell, or if you have been in close contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19.
Limitations
- ⚠A negative result does not completely exclude COVID-19 and should be interpreted with clinical and epidemiological data.
- ⚠This is a qualitative test and does not measure viral load or infectivity.
- ⚠Sensitivity may vary with time from symptom onset, specimen type and sample quality.
- ⚠The test detects SARS-CoV-2 RNA, not necessarily viable virus.
Risks & Considerations
- ●Mild pain or discomfort during swab collection.
- ●Gagging reflex during oropharyngeal swab collection.
- ●Slight nosebleed after nasopharyngeal swab.
Interfering Factors
- ●Poor swab collection technique or inadequate respiratory epithelial cells may lower test sensitivity.
- ●Sample not placed in the specified viral transport medium.
- ●Break in cold chain during transport to the laboratory.
- ●Presence of PCR inhibitors in the respiratory specimen.
- ●Contamination during sample collection or processing can cause false results.
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Qualitative Real Time RT PCR Test | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Qualitative Real Time RT PCR Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of the SARS-CoV-2 Real Time RT PCR test at DNA Labs India?
What is the sample type for this COVID-19 RT PCR test?
How soon will I get the report?
Do I need fasting before the test?
Who should undergo this COVID-19 RT PCR test?
What does qualitative RT-PCR mean?
Is RT-PCR the gold standard for COVID-19 diagnosis?
What does a positive result mean?
What does a negative result mean?
Can I book this test online?
What information is mandatory along with the sample?
What precautions should I follow before and after the test?
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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.
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