Respiratory Viral Panel by PCR Test
Respiratory Viral Panel by PCR Test
Respiratory tract infections are caused by viral, fungal and bacterial agents. Most of these infections usually resolve on their own for people with a healthier immune system. For people with other diseases which make their immune system weaker, fighting off these respiratory illnesses may be challenging. Infants, children, older people and people with weaker immune system are at higher risk of developing infections. The respiratory viral panel test, detects the presence of these viruses, so that doctors can take an informed decision regarding the course of treatment.
What is the Respiratory Viral Panel by PCR Test Used For?
Respiratory Viral Panel by PCR is used to test for illnesses caused by viruses. Some of these viral infections are
Influenza
Pneumonia
Common Cold
COVID-19
Symptoms of Viral Infections
This test is recommended for people who are at the risk for viral infections, with a weaker immune system or have flu-like symptoms. Many of these conditions have overlapping conditions
Fever
Cough
Breathing Difficulties
Blocked Nose
Sore Throat
Appetite Loss
Fatigue
Which Tests are Included in Respiratory Viral Panel by PCR Test?
The respiratory viral panel tests for genetic material of certain viruses present in the body known to cause respiratory illnesses. The genetic material is tested using a method called Polymerase chain reaction, where viral DNA is amplified and then analysed. The respiratory panel tests for viruses and their variants (also called subtypes or serotypes) like:
· Adenovirus
· Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
· Influenza A, B
· Parainfluenza virus
· Rhinovirus
· Enterovirus
· Coronavirus
· Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) or COVID 19
· Human Metapneumovirus
Preparation for Test
Before the test, let your general physician know of any medication, supplements or treatments that you are consuming or undergoing. There are no special preparations required. Before sample collection you might be asked to blow your nose to remove existing mucus.
Interpretation of Test Results
NEGATIVE TEST: Absence of any of the genetic material belonging to these viruses would indicate a negative result. This may mean you are not infected with the certain virus, or the symptoms of your illness were caused due to other reasons or pathogens, which were not tested for in this test. The doctor might advise a repeat test or other tests to diagnose your condition.
POSITIVE TEST: Presence of any of the genetic material belonging to these viruses would indicate a positive result. This may mean you are likely to be infected with the certain virus, or were recently infected with the virus. Sometimes, these tests are positive even after the symptoms have subsided.
FAQs
How is the sample collected for the Respiratory Viral Panel by PCR test?
A cotton swab will be inserted in your nose after tipping your head backwards, reaching the upper part of your throat. The swab will be rotated to collect the sample. This sample is called a nasopharyngeal sample.
The sample may also be collected by using saline solution inside the nose and by gently drawing out the solution by using suction. This is a nasal aspirate sample.
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for Respiratory Viral Panel by PCR test?
The tests results should come within 1-2 days after the sample is taken. This time would depend on the diagnostic laboratory that has taken the sample for analysis.
What should we do if any of the components of the tests came out positive?
In case any or some of the tests came out positive, contact your physician for advice. You might be infected with the particular virus, for which the test result returned positive. But positive tests may not always mean that you have an active infection, it can also mean that the genetic material from the virus is still present in your system. For healthy individuals this can happen up to a week after an infection. For children and immunocompromised (people with weak immune systems), the tests may return positive for many weeks after the active infection with symptoms have subsided.
Does a negative result confirm that I do not have any illnesses from viruses?
This panel does not test for all the viruses. It only tests for viruses that commonly cause respiratory illnesses. If the respiratory viral panel is negative, it would mean you are not infected by the viruses that this panel tests for. But if there are unexplained symptoms, even with the respiratory panel test negative, the doctors would advise other tests to find out the reason behind your symptoms. The negative results may also be due to improper collection of the sample.
Is it necessary to do this test?
Respiratory viral panel tests are usually advised for people with a weak immune system, infants and children with unexplained symptoms, and hospitalised patients. These people are at a higher risk of developing infections, and due to their weaker immune system may also develop infections due to other agents like bacteria. These tests help doctors assess treatment options, which decreases the number of unnecessary hospital admissions and use of antibiotics.
For people who have a generally healthy immune system, flu-like conditions resolve on their own.
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