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COVID-19 Testing Update
Issue: 2020/09 – September
There are a variety of tests and testing procedures for Covid-19. Understanding them all can be confusing. Richard Ellin, M.D., of the Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation Board of Directors, explains the different types.
Testing for Covid-19 made simple:
There are two types of tests for Covid-19: Diagnostic Tests and Antibody Tests. A diagnostic test can show if you have an active coronavirus infection. An antibody test looks for antibodies to Covid-19 in the bloodstream.
There are two types of diagnostic tests: Molecular Tests, such as RT-PCR tests, that detect the virus’ genetic material (RNA), and Antigen Tests that detect specific proteins on the surface of the virus.
Molecular tests are run on swabs taken from the nasopharynx, throat, or saliva. Results can be available within one day, but sometimes take much longer because of the overwhelming demand for tests. These tests are highly accurate and are the type of tests done most commonly.
Antigen tests are sometimes referred to as “rapid diagnostic tests.” They are also run on a nasal or throat swab, and can provide results same day, often within one hour. Positive results are highly accurate, but not quite as accurate as the molecular test.
Antibody tests look for the antibodies that fight Covid-19 infection. We produce at least two types of antibodies, and they can take days or weeks to develop after exposure. They may stay in your blood for several weeks or more after recovery. They should not be used to diagnose an active coronavirus infection, nor should they be used to confirm or rule out that someone has had Covid-19. Therefore, currently they are of no clinical use to individual patients.
