SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), Rapid PCR
CPT Code(s):
87635
Turnaround Time:
6 - 8 hours
Specimen Requirements
Preferred Specimen:
Swab
Minimum Volume:
1 swab
Transport Container:
Viral Transport Media Tube (with NPS or Nasal Swab)
Transport Temperature:
Room Temperature
Collection Instructions:
Nasal or Nasopharyngeal Swab (NPS) collected according to standard technique and immediately placed in 1 - 3 mL of transport media
Rejection Criteria:
Bacterial swab specimen; specimen received in grossly leaking transport container; dry specimen; specimen received in expired transport media or incorrect transport device; inappropriate specimen transport conditions; specimen received after prolonged delay in transport (usually more than 72 hours); specimen stored or transported at room temperature; wooden shaft swab in transport device; unlabeled specimen or name discrepancy between specimen and request label
Stability Criteria
Room Temperature:
8 hours
Refrigerated:
72 hours
Frozen:
30 days
Clinical Significance
The SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Rapid PCR holds specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in the detection of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. The specific clinical significance and diagnostic use include:
1. Rapid and Accurate Diagnosis: The SARS-CoV-2 Rapid PCR is designed to rapidly detect the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in a patient's sample, usually obtained from a nasal or throat swab. The test utilizes polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology, which amplifies and detects specific genetic material (RNA) of the virus. It provides accurate and sensitive results, enabling early and precise diagnosis of COVID-19.
2. Efficient Screening Tool: The rapid PCR is particularly useful in screening individuals for COVID-19, especially in situations requiring quick turnaround time, such as in emergency departments, airports, workplaces, and other high-risk settings. It allows for prompt identification of infected individuals, facilitating timely isolation, contact tracing, and implementation of appropriate infection control measures.
3. Monitoring Disease Progression: The rapid PCR is valuable in monitoring the progression of COVID-19 in patients. It helps healthcare providers assess viral load dynamics over time, aiding in treatment decisions, determining the duration of isolation, and assessing response to therapy or vaccination.
4. Public Health Surveillance: Large-scale implementation of rapid PCR testing can contribute to effective public health surveillance and monitoring of COVID-19 prevalence within communities. It assists in tracking the spread of the virus, identifying potential outbreaks, and informing public health interventions.
5. Travel and Border Control: The rapid PCR has significance in facilitating travel and border control measures. Many countries require negative COVID-19 test results for incoming travelers, and a rapid PCR provides a reliable method to verify the absence of the virus.
It is important to note that the interpretation of test results should be done in conjunction with the patient's clinical presentation, symptoms, and epidemiological factors. The SARS-CoV-2 Rapid PCR plays a crucial role in the timely and accurate diagnosis of COVID-19, enabling effective management of patients, implementation of infection control measures, and monitoring of disease progression.