A Respiratory Pathogen Panel (RPP), also known as a Respiratory Viral Panel (RVP) or Multiplex Respiratory Panel (MRP), is a diagnostic test used to detect and identify multiple respiratory viruses and bacteria that may be causing respiratory tract infections. These infections can range from mild colds to more severe respiratory illnesses such as pneumonia or bronchitis.
The RPP test is typically conducted using molecular diagnostic techniques like polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs). These tests detect the genetic material (DNA or RNA) of specific pathogens in respiratory specimens such as nasal swabs, throat swabs, or sputum samples.
The panel may include detection of various viruses, including:
- Influenza viruses (types A and B)
- Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
- Adenovirus
- Parainfluenza viruses
- Human metapneumovirus (hMPV)
- Rhinovirus
- Coronaviruses (including strains such as SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19)
- Other respiratory viruses
Additionally, some RPP tests may also include bacterial targets such as:
- Bordetella pertussis (the bacterium causing whooping cough)
- Chlamydia pneumoniae
- Mycoplasma pneumoniae
By detecting multiple pathogens simultaneously, RPP tests can help healthcare providers quickly diagnose respiratory infections, guide appropriate treatment decisions, and implement infection control measures to prevent further spread, especially in settings such as hospitals or long-term care facilities.
It's important to note that while RPP tests are valuable diagnostic tools, they may not detect all respiratory pathogens, and clinical judgment should always be used in conjunction with test results for accurate diagnosis and patient management.