0100U Respiratory pathogen, multiplex reverse transcription and multiplex amplified probe technique, multiple types or subtypes, 21 targets (adenovirus, coronavirus 229E, coronavirus HKU1, coronavirus NL63, coronavirus OC43, human metapneumovirus, human rhinovi

Name of the Procedure:

Respiratory Pathogen, Multiplex Reverse Transcription, and Multiplex Amplified Probe Technique, Multiple Types or Subtypes, 21 Targets (Adenovirus, Coronavirus 229E, Coronavirus HKU1, Coronavirus NL63, Coronavirus OC43, Human Metapneumovirus, Human Rhinovirus)

Summary

A sophisticated lab test used to detect multiple respiratory pathogens, including various types and subtypes of viruses like adenovirus, coronaviruses, and human rhinovirus, using advanced molecular techniques.

Purpose

This test helps diagnose respiratory infections by identifying specific pathogens causing symptoms. Early and accurate diagnosis can guide appropriate treatment and management.

Indications

• Symptoms like cough, fever, sore throat, shortness of breath, and congestion.
• Suspected cases of respiratory infections, outbreaks, or when multiple pathogens are suspected.
• Patients with weakened immune systems or chronic respiratory conditions.

Preparation

• No special preparation is typically required.
• Inform the doctor about any medications or supplements.
• A nasal or throat swab is usually collected for the test.

Procedure Description

1. A healthcare professional will collect a sample using a nasal or throat swab.
2. The sample is sent to the lab where it undergoes reverse transcription to convert viral RNA into DNA.
3. The DNA is then amplified using a multiplex amplified probe technique, allowing simultaneous detection of multiple pathogens.
4. Results are analyzed to identify the presence of specific viruses.

No anesthesia or sedation is required as it is a non-invasive sample collection.

Duration

• Sample collection: A few minutes.
• Lab processing: From a few hours to a couple of days, depending on lab resources.

Setting

• Outpatient clinic, hospital, or testing laboratory.

Personnel

• Doctors, nurses, or trained healthcare professionals collect samples.
• Laboratory technicians and molecular biologists perform and analyze the test.

Risks and Complications

• Mild discomfort during swab collection.
• Rare risk of minor nosebleed or irritation.

Benefits

• Accurate identification of the respiratory pathogen.
• Helps in timely and appropriate treatment.
• Reduces the misuse of antibiotics by identifying viral infections.

Recovery

• Post-procedure care is not required as it involves simple sample collection.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately.

Alternatives

• Traditional respiratory virus panel tests.
• Standalone tests for specific pathogens (e.g., RT-PCR for COVID-19).
• Immunoassays or culture methods (less comprehensive but useful in some scenarios).

Patient Experience

• Mild discomfort or gagging sensation when the swab is taken.
• Anxiety about waiting for results which can be managed with reassurance and information.
• Generally, minimal pain and quick procedure with significant diagnostic benefits.