Screening, Diagnostic and Prognostic Tests for COVID-19: A Comprehensive Review

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Diagnostic Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) is the established gold standard for COVID-19 diagnosis.
• The need for rapid, affordable, and accessible testing has driven the development of alternative methods.
• Effective prognostication and patient triage are crucial for managing the pandemic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review current evidence on diagnostic, screening, and prognostic tests for COVID-19.
• To compare the utility of molecular assays, antigen tests, and clinical parameters.
• To inform strategies for COVID-19 testing and patient management.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of existing literature on COVID-19 diagnostic and prognostic tests.
• Analysis of sensitivity, specificity, and cost-effectiveness of various testing modalities.
• Evaluation of laboratory, imaging, and clinical parameters for prognostication.

Main Results:

• RT-PCR remains the most sensitive molecular diagnostic test for COVID-19.
• Antigen tests, while less sensitive, offer advantages in speed and cost for widespread screening.
• Clinical, laboratory, and imaging findings can effectively support prognostication and triage decisions.

Conclusions:

• A combination of testing strategies, balancing sensitivity with accessibility, is recommended for COVID-19.
• Point-of-care antigen testing is valuable for large-scale screening initiatives.
• Clinical assessment remains vital for predicting disease severity and guiding patient care.