Testing for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus 2: Challenges in Getting Good Specimens, Choosing the Right Test, and Interpreting the Results.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

We explore ways to reduce errors in laboratory diagnosis of severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus 2 infection by considering preanalytic, analytic, and postanalytic sources. To address preanalytic challenges, we first consider alternative anatomic sites for specimen collection, then discuss self-collection, alternative sampling devices, and transport media. Strengths and limitations of various analytic test systems are considered in the context of postanalytic challenges associated with making test results meaningful, specifically considering the complex relationship between "positive" test results and reproduction and shedding of intact virus. Finally, we provide recommendations regarding healthcare worker surveillance and release of patients with coronavirus di

SUBMITTER: Tu YP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7467050 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature