Serological detection of 2019-nCoV respond to the epidemic: A useful complement to nucleic acid testing

Jin Zhang1, Xiaoming Zhang2, Jianhua Liu1

  • 1Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, No. 36 Sanhao Street, Shenyang 110004, China.

Insights

Rapid diagnosis of COVID-19 is crucial. This study shows that detecting IgM and IgG antibodies using an immunoassay within 3-15 days of symptom onset aids in COVID-19 diagnosis and understanding disease progression.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) has led to a global health crisis.
  • Rapid and accurate diagnostic methods are essential for controlling the spread of COVID-19.
  • Understanding the dynamics of antibody production and seroepidemiology is vital for epidemic control.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate an automated chemiluminescent immunoassay for detecting serum IgM and IgG antibodies against 2019-nCoV.
  • To investigate the dynamic process of antibody production in COVID-19 patients.
  • To assess the seroepidemiological status in different populations.

Main Methods:

  • An automated chemiluminescent immunoassay was employed to detect serum IgM and IgG antibodies.
  • The study included 742 subjects.
  • Antibody levels were monitored in relation to disease progression and onset of symptoms.

Main Results:

  • COVID-19 patients showed positive reactivity for specific IgM and IgG antibodies between 3 to 15 days after symptom onset.
  • Specific IgM and IgG antibody levels increased as the disease progressed.
  • The immunoassay demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy, with areas under the ROC curves of 0.984 for IgM and 1.000 for IgG, indicating good sensitivity and specificity.

Conclusions:

  • The developed antibody detection assay is sensitive and specific for diagnosing COVID-19.
  • Monitoring dynamic serological changes provides insights into COVID-19 pathogenesis.
  • Understanding seroepidemiology is crucial for effective public health interventions and controlling the COVID-19 epidemic.

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