Educational Content: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.

Definition of RT-PCR

Medically reviewed by Dr. Otari Nergadze, Neurosurgeon | Updated: January 2026

RT-PCR: a highly sensitive technique for the detection and quantitation of mRNA (messenger RNA). The technique consists of two parts:

  1. The synthesis of cDNA (complementary DNA) from RNA by reverse transcription (RT) and
  2. The amplification of a specific cDNA by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

RT-PCR has been used to measure viral load with HIV and may also be used with other RNA viruses such as measles and mumps.

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