Rapid Antigen Test for Postmortem Evaluation of SARS-CoV-2 Carriage

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Pathology
• Public Health

Background:

• Accurate detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in deceased individuals is essential for implementing effective infection control measures during postmortem examinations.
• Ensuring the safety of healthcare professionals performing autopsies is paramount, especially in the context of a pandemic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the utility of a rapid antigen test for detecting SARS-CoV-2 in deceased patients.
• To compare the performance of a rapid antigen test against quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) for SARS-CoV-2 detection in postmortem settings.
• To determine if a rapid antigen test can effectively guide autopsy practices and safety protocols.

Main Methods:

• A prospective cohort study was conducted involving deceased patients.
• Samples were tested using both a rapid antigen test and qRT-PCR.
• The usability and performance of the rapid antigen test were assessed in guiding autopsy procedures.

Main Results:

• The rapid antigen test demonstrated usability as a tool to guide autopsy practice.
• The study compared the rapid test's effectiveness with the established qRT-PCR method.
• Findings suggest the rapid test can aid in real-time decision-making during postmortem examinations.

Conclusions:

• Rapid antigen tests are a viable option for detecting SARS-CoV-2 in deceased patients.
• The use of rapid antigen tests can inform safety measures and guide autopsy procedures effectively.
• This approach supports safer postmortem examinations in the context of SARS-CoV-2 detection.