RT PCR (Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction) Test

What is RT PCR Test

The RT PCR (Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction) test is a diagnostic tool used to detect the presence of viral RNA in a sample.

• RT PCR Test detects viral RNA, including SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19 virus).
• It converts viral RNA into complementary DNA (cDNA) using reverse transcriptase.
• Amplification of cDNA occurs using PCR with specific primers.
• Fluorescent dyes or probes detect amplified DNA.
• RT PCR Test Positive result indicates an active viral infection.
• RT PCR Test is highly sensitive and specific for detecting small amounts of viral RNA.
• RT PCR Test is considered the gold standard for COVID-19 diagnosis.
• Results guide clinical decisions, public health measures, and quarantine recommendations.
• RT PCR Test is widely used globally for COVID-19 screening and surveillance.
• RT PCR Test plays a crucial role in controlling the spread of infectious diseases.

 

RT PCR Test

Here is basic information about RT PCR Test.

Also Known As	Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction test
Type	Molecular diagnostic test
Purpose	Detect and diagnose viral infections, including COVID-19
Sample Type	Nasopharyngeal or throat swab
Preparation	None
Fasting	Not required
Gender	Any
Age Group	Any
Normal Value	Negative for viral infection
Reporting Time	Typically 1-2 days
Cost	400 - 700 INR*

*Price range may vary as per location, lab type, and procedure of lab test.

 

RT PCR Test Full Form

The full form of RT PCR Test is Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction Test.

 

RT PCR Test Means

RT-PCR stands for Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction.

• It is a molecular diagnostic test used to detect and amplify specific genetic material, such as RNA, in a sample.
• RT-PCR is commonly used for the detection and diagnosis of viral infections, including COVID-19.

 

RT PCR Test Purpose

Here is the basic purpose of the RT PCR Test.

• Detect and diagnose viral infections, including COVID-19.
• Monitor the viral load and progression of an infection.
• Determine the presence or absence of specific genetic material.
• Identify and track the spread of viral variants.
• Assess the effectiveness of treatments or vaccines.

 

 

RT PCR Test Preparation

Here is the basic preparation for RT PCR Test.

 

Before Test

• No specific preparation is typically required.
• Follow any instructions provided by healthcare provider, such as fasting requirements.
• Inform healthcare provider about any medications or supplements you are taking.

 

During Test

• Cooperate with the healthcare professional conducting the test.
• Provide a sample, usually through a nasal swab or other collection method.
• Remain still and follow instructions during the sample collection.

 

After Test

• Resume normal activities.
• Follow any post-test instructions provided by healthcare provider.
• Await the test results and discuss them with healthcare provider.

Summary

It's important to note that specific instructions for RT PCR Test preparation may vary depending on the testing site and the reason for the test. Always consult with your healthcare provider or the testing site for specific instructions.

 

RT PCR Test Procedure

Here is the basic RT PCR Test Procedure mentioned below.

• The patient provides a sample, usually through a nasal or throat swab.
• The sample is collected using a swab and placed in a tube with a transport medium.
• The sample is transported to a laboratory for analysis.
• In the laboratory, the RNA is extracted from the sample.
• The RNA is converted to DNA using reverse transcription.
• The DNA is amplified using PCR (polymerase chain reaction) to detect the presence of the target virus or genetic material.
• The PCR products are analyzed to determine the presence or absence of the target virus or genetic material.

 

RT PCR Test Result

Here is RT PCR Test Result Interpretation for Beginners:

• A positive result indicates the presence of the target virus or genetic material.
• A negative result indicates the absence of the target virus or genetic material.
• The result may be reported as "detected" or "not detected" for easier understanding.

 

RT PCR Test Report

RT PCR Test Report PDF

 

RT PCR Test Positive Result Report

RT PCR Positive Test Report

RT PCR Test Positive Result Report PDF

 

RT PCR Test Negative Result Report

RT PCR Negative Test Report

RT PCR Test Negative Result Report PDF

 

RT PCR Test Interpretation

Here is an example of a table that shows the possible RT PCR Test results and their interpretations for COVID-19:

RT PCR Test Result	Interpretation
Positive	Presence of SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA in the sample indicates an active COVID-19 infection.
Negative	The test did not detect the presence of SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA in the sample.
Invalid	The test result was inconclusive, often due to a technical error during the testing process.

 

Specimen Requirements For RT PCR Test

Here are the specimen requirements for the RT PCR Test.

Specimen	Nasopharyngeal or throat swab
Volume	1 - 3 ml
Container	Viral Transport Medium (VTM)

 

RT PCR Test is Safe?

The RT PCR Test is generally safe and well-tolerated.

• Generally considered safe with minimal risks.
• May cause mild discomfort during sample collection.
• Follows strict safety protocols to prevent contamination.

 

When Do You Get RT PCR Test Results?

RT PCR Test results are typically available within a few hours to a few days.

• The turnaround time may vary depending on the laboratory.
• Your healthcare provider will inform you when you can expect to receive the results.

 

RT PCR Test Limitation

Here are some possible limitations of the RT PCR Test.

• False negatives can occur in early or late stages of infection.
• Sensitivity can vary depending on the quality of the sample.
• Possible interference from substances present in the sample.

 

RT PCR Test Risk Factors

Here is the potential risk factor of the RT PCR Test.

• Possibility of false positives due to contamination.
• Risk of sample mishandling or incorrect collection.
• Potential for discomfort or complications during sample collection.

 

Doctor Recommendations After RT PCR Test Result

Here are Doctor recommendations or consult a specialist after RT PCR Test.

Test Result	Doctor to Visit	Reason
Positive	Infectious Disease Specialist	Confirm and manage COVID-19 infection
Negative	Primary Care Physician	Evaluate other potential causes of symptoms

 

RT PCR Test Price

Here are the estimated RT PCR Test Price in India with top different cities:

City	Price Range (INR)*
Mumbai	400 - 700
New Delhi	400 - 600
Bangalore	400 - 700
Hyderabad	400 - 700
Kolkata	400 - 600
Pune	400 - 600
Lucknow	400 - 700
Noida	400 - 600
Surat	400 - 700
Gurugram	400 - 600
Patna	400 - 700
Chennai	400 - 600
Jaipur	400 - 700
Ahmedabad	400 - 600

*Prices are approximate and vary depending on a specific laboratory or healthcare facility

 

Summary

RT PCR Test is a highly accurate diagnostic tool used to detect and identify viral infections, including COVID-19. Also check Drlogy Test for detailed information about all medical tests for patients, doctors, scholers and medical students.

 

Reference

• Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction - Wikipedia [1].
• Real-Time Reverse Transcription–Polymerase Chain Reaction Assay for SARS-associated Coronavirus - NIH [2].