The test will be performed immediately upon receipt in UH-Microbiology, with results reported within 2 hours of receipt, contingent upon testing capacity.
Test Updated:
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Test Overview
The Cepheid Xpert® Xpress SARS-CoV-2 RNA assay system is a qualitative real-time RT-PCR system that enables the direct amplification of Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 RNA from nasopharyngeal swabs (preferred) or nasal swabs (when nasopharyngeal swabbing is not possible) in patients suspected of COVID-19 by their health care provider.
This SARS-CoV-2 assay is indicated for extremely time-sensitive testing (e.g., transplant recipients).
Not detected by Cepheid
* Reference ranges may change over time. Please refer to the original patient report when evaluating results.
Specimen Requirements
Michigan Medicine Hospitals Only:
Nasopharyngeal Specimen: Gently insert mini-tipped flocked nasopharyngeal swab (swab on flexible plastic shaft) through the nostril and into the nasopharynx, reaching the posterior nasopharynx. Gently rotate swab, then remove, and break swab off into tube of Viral Transport Media (VTM) or phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). Make sure the swab is fully immersed in the transport media, and that the shaft is short enough to completely tighten the cap.
Specimens must be directly transported to UH-Micro Lab for STAT testing.
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