Respiratory Pathogens Panel Test
A respiratory pathogens panel checks for viruses and bacteria that cause respiratory infections. It helps your provider find the cause of your illness so you get the right treatment faster.
What this test measures
A respiratory pathogens (RP) panel checks for pathogens in your respiratory tract. A pathogen is a virus, bacteria, or other organism that causes an illness. Your respiratory tract includes your lungs, nose, and throat. The panel tests for various viruses and bacteria, such as flu, common cold, RSV, adenovirus, COVID-19, whooping cough, and bacterial pneumonia.
What your results mean
Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by your age and sex. MedlinePlus does not publish a single normal range for this test — always read your result against the range printed on your own lab report and discuss it with your provider.
Frequently asked questions
What does a respiratory pathogens panel test for?
It tests for viruses and bacteria that cause respiratory infections, such as flu, common cold, RSV, adenovirus, COVID-19, whooping cough, and bacterial pneumonia.
How is an RP panel different from other respiratory tests?
An RP panel only needs a single sample and results come in a few hours, which is faster than other tests that can take days.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means a specific pathogen was found. If more than one part is positive, you may have a co-infection.
What does a negative result mean?
A negative result may mean your symptoms were caused by a pathogen not in the panel, the sample wasn't collected correctly, or you have a condition not caused by a virus or bacteria.
Will my provider use the results to decide treatment?
Yes, based on your results, your provider will recommend treatment and may order more tests to confirm the diagnosis.
Related lab tests
Sources
- MedlinePlus: Respiratory Pathogens Panel — NIH MedlinePlus
Last updated . Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.