Respiratory Comprehensive Panel – 25 Pathogens (24 Hrs)

Respiratory Comprehensive 25 Pathogens Test – Fast, Accurate Detection of Viral & Bacterial Infections

The Respiratory Comprehensive 25 Pathogens Test is a state-of-the-art multiplex real-time PCR panel that detects 25 of the most common viral and bacterial causes of respiratory illness all from a single nasopharyngeal (NP) swab. With an industry-leading turnaround time of just 1–2 days, this advanced diagnostic tool delivers rapid, actionable results to help identify the exact cause of symptoms like fever, cough, sore throat, congestion, and difficulty breathing.

Perfect for patients with acute respiratory infections, travelers, healthcare workers, or those preparing for hospital admission, this test eliminates guesswork by differentiating between:

• Viruses: SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), Influenza A/B, RSV, Rhinovirus/Enterovirus, Adenovirus, Parainfluenza, Human Metapneumovirus, Bocavirus
• Bacteria: Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydophila pneumoniae, Bordetella pertussis (whooping cough), Legionella pneumophila

Offered at Lab Tests Dubai, this highly sensitive PCR test ensures accurate diagnosis, reduces unnecessary antibiotic use, and supports faster recovery so you can get back to life sooner.

Why You Need This Test

You need this test if:

• You have acute respiratory symptoms (cough, fever, runny nose, shortness of breath)
• You’re experiencing flu-like illness during peak season
• You’ve had close contact with someone diagnosed with flu, RSV, or COVID-19
• You’re a healthcare worker, teacher, or caregiver needing clearance
• You’re planning travel or visiting vulnerable individuals
• You want to avoid antibiotics by confirming viral vs. bacterial cause
• You’re being evaluated for pneumonia, bronchitis, or persistent cold

This test gives you clarity fast critical for treatment decisions, isolation needs, and protecting others.

Symptoms That Indicate This Test

Book this test if you experience:

• Fever or chills
• Persistent cough or wheezing
• Sore throat or nasal congestion
• Difficulty breathing or chest discomfort
• Fatigue and body aches
• Loss of smell or taste
• Close contact with someone sick

These could be signs of influenza, RSV, long-COVID, or other contagious respiratory illnesses many of which require different treatments.

Pathogens & Detection

These pathogens are external infectious agents transmitted via droplets, aerosols, or contact. The test detects their genetic material (RNA/DNA) using real-time PCR technology.

Even during early or mild infection, PCR can detect low levels of virus or bacteria making it far more sensitive than rapid antigen tests.

This allows for:

• Accurate differentiation between flu, RSV, and COVID-19
• Identification of less common but serious pathogens like Bordetella or Legionella
• Early isolation and targeted treatment

What Happens If Untreated

Ignoring undiagnosed respiratory infections can lead to:

• Progression to pneumonia, bronchitis, or ARDS
• Spread to vulnerable individuals (infants, elderly, immunocompromised)
• Unnecessary use of antibiotics (ineffective against viruses)
• Prolonged illness and missed work/school
• Severe outcomes in high-risk patients

Early identification helps prevent complications and supports public health efforts.

How to Prepare for the Test

Preparation is minimal:

• No fasting required

• Avoid nasal sprays, rinses, or antiseptics 1 hour before collection

• Do not eat, drink, or smoke 30 minutes prior to swabbing

• Sample Collection Instructions:

• Collected by trained professional into viral transport medium (VTM)

• Must be shipped refrigerated (2–8°C) in a special transport box (provided by Lab Tests Dubai)

• Duly filled Test Request Form (TRF) and patient ID mandatory

We offer home sample collection across Dubai & UAE, our team handles everything safely and compliantly.

Test Overview