SARS‑CoV‑2 RNA (COVID‑19), Qualitative NAAT
Also known as: Novel Coronavirus, Wuhan, COVID19, nCOV, Coronavirus
Use
This test is a molecular nucleic acid amplification (NAAT) assay, including PCR or TMA, designed for qualitative detection of SARS‑CoV‑2 RNA in respiratory specimens, supporting clinical diagnosis of COVID‑19 in both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals. It routes specimens to one of multiple EUA‑authorized platforms at Quest, including a laboratory‑developed test (LDT), Roche Diagnostics, Hologic Panther Fusion, and Hologic Panther COVID‑19 assays, enhancing flexibility and throughput. It enables single‑code ordering to optimize capacity and turnaround time. ([questdiagnostics.com](https://www.questdiagnostics.com/healthcare-professionals/about-our-tests/infectious-diseases/covid-19/naat?utm_source=openai))
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
The test is qualitative only and its performance depends on specimen type, collection quality, and handling. Specimens routed across different EUA platforms may have variable sensitivity characteristics. Priority handling reduces TAT but does not guarantee same‑day results. Standard code supplants prior codes (39433 and 39444) which were discontinued after May 4, 2020. ([questdiagnostics.com](https://www.questdiagnostics.com/healthcare-professionals/about-our-tests/infectious-diseases/covid-19/naat?utm_source=openai))
Methodology
PCR-based (PCR)
Biomarkers
Result Turnaround Time
2-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Nasopharyngeal Swab
Volume
Not provided
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Viral media
Collection Instructions
Nasopharyngeal swab in viral transport media; supervised self‑collection at PSC allowed where permitted.
Other tests from different labs that may be relevant