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Screening and confirmation tests for SARS-CoV-2: benefits and drawbacks
Muhammad Hakimin Shafie1, Marie Antony Dass1,2, Hazlam Shamin Ahmad Shaberi1,3
1Analytical Biochemistry Research Centre (ABrC), Bangunan Inkubator Inovasi Universiti (I2U), Kampus Sains@usm, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Lebuh Bukit Jambul, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Penang Malaysia.
Summary
This review analyzes SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic tests, including RT-PCR, LFIA, and ELISA. Combining methods like LFIA or ELISA with RT-PCR may improve sensitivity and specificity for accurate COVID-19 diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Diagnostic Medicine
Background:
- Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a global pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2.
- Accurate and timely diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection is critical for public health.
- Current diagnostic strategies primarily focus on detecting viral genetic material, antigens, or host antibodies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and analyze existing screening and confirmation tests for SARS-CoV-2.
- To compare the advantages and disadvantages of different diagnostic methodologies.
- To propose combined testing strategies for enhanced diagnostic accuracy.
Main Methods:
- Review of real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).
- Analysis of lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA).
- Evaluation of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
Main Results:
- RT-PCR is the gold standard for SARS-CoV-2 detection due to high sensitivity and specificity.
- ELISA is suitable for large-scale serological screening but less reliable for active infection status.
- LFIA offers rapid, point-of-care testing without specialized equipment, enabling quick diagnosis.
Conclusions:
- Each diagnostic method has unique strengths and limitations.
- Combining LFIA or ELISA with RT-PCR can achieve a high level of sensitivity and specificity.
- Optimized testing strategies are essential for effective COVID-19 management.

