Test Methods Overview: PCR, PCR Rapid Tests, Antigen or Antibody Tests

There are numerous test variations available to detect an infection with the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. None of them is a magic solution, and all have advantages and disadvantages.

However, when used together in a coherent strategy, they can provide us with significant benefits.

Currently, the following test methods are known:

PCR Tests

PCR tests provide direct pathogen detection and require laboratories to analyze the samples.

Advantages: The results are very accurate. PCR tests are the most precise tests currently available. For this reason, PCR tests are considered the gold standard among test variations and are the only method for detecting the virus whose results are officially recognized.

Disadvantages: PCR tests are expensive and labor-intensive. A laboratory is always required and results typically take 1-2 days. A required throat swab is very uncomfortable and may only be performed by medical professionals.

PCR tests are unsuitable for mass application and cannot be performed by patients on themselves.

Use: PCR tests are performed when a rapid test is positive or in case of typical symptoms of coronavirus infection. Physicians may request a PCR test for specific symptoms.

PCR Rapid Tests

PCR rapid tests use the same method as PCR tests, but in a simplified and less accurate manner. They do not need to be performed in stationary laboratories.

Advantages: Results are available within two and a half hours and are still relatively accurate. They can be performed on-site, eliminating the need for laboratory transport.

Disadvantages: PCR rapid tests are significantly more expensive than standard PCR tests and less reliable. Compared to antigen tests, the time to reach a result is relatively long. Additionally, PCR rapid tests require expensive and cumbersome medical equipment, so they cannot be performed everywhere.

Use: Due to numerous disadvantages, the use of PCR rapid tests is limited to special situations. They can be used in outpatient clinics, care facilities, or emergency departments where trained personnel are available for sample collection and the necessary medical equipment can be set up.

Antibody Tests

Antibody tests detect antibodies that the body produces after infection with coronavirus.

Advantages: After an antibody test, you know whether you have ever been infected with coronavirus and whether you have immune protection.

Disadvantages: The antibody test does not indicate whether the patient is still infectious. For this reason, the antibody test is unsuitable for detecting acute infection.

Use: Antibody tests are mainly used in research projects to determine how many people in the general population or in specific professions have already overcome an infection.

Antigen Tests

Antigen tests detect the virus directly under certain conditions. Not the genetic material, but specific proteins of the virus are detected.

Advantages: Antigen rapid tests can deliver results within 10 to 20 minutes. The test is also as simple as a pregnancy test: you apply the patient sample and it reacts. The simple implementation and rapid results make the test usable anywhere. The test can now also be performed using saliva, making an uncomfortable nasopharyngeal swab unnecessary. Read more about the benefits of saliva tests.

Disadvantages: The antigen rapid test is less accurate than the PCR test. The probability that an infected person will be recognized as such (sensitivity) typically ranges between 80% and 97%, depending on the test and viral load. The probability that a healthy person will be recognized as healthy (specificity) ranges between 97% and 100%.

Use: Antigen rapid tests are particularly well-suited for rapid testing in medical facilities, nursing homes, and in private individuals. They can identify infected persons promptly. At parahealth, there are various professional antigen rapid tests available for high quality standards.

Conclusion

All test variations have the same goal: to diagnose an infection in time to help the patient, isolate them, and prevent further spread of coronavirus.

However, when tests are used together, the advantages of the different variations can be combined and diagnostic capacity can be significantly increased.

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