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Continuous false positive results by SARS-CoV-2 rapid antigen testing: a case report
Yannick Galipeau1, Abishek Xavier1, Aaron Dyks2
1Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology & Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
Frontiers in Public Health
|November 29, 2023
Summary
Rapid antigen tests (RATs) can produce false positives, as seen in a case of sustained positive results without active SARS-CoV-2 infection. Confirming RAT results with RT-PCR or serology is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Diagnostic Testing
Background:
- Nucleic acid testing (e.g., RT-PCR) and lateral flow immunochromatographic assays (LFAs), or rapid antigen tests (RATs), are critical for identifying active SARS-CoV-2 infections.
- RATs offer accessible home testing, complementing public health surveillance strategies.
Observation:
- A case report details an adult female experiencing repeated positive results from BTNX Inc. rapid antigen tests.
- These persistent positive results were inconsistent with an active SARS-CoV-2 infection, as confirmed by negative RT-PCR and serological analyses.
Findings:
- Serological tests indicated no detectable nucleocapsid antibodies, ruling out recent SARS-CoV-2 infection.
- The continuous false positive results were specific to BTNX testing devices, suggesting a potential issue with the assay or its interaction with the individual.
Implications:
- This case highlights the possibility of sustained false positives with specific rapid antigen test devices.
- Healthcare providers and public health officials should be aware of such occurrences to avoid misdiagnosis and unnecessary patient anxiety.
- Alternative confirmatory testing methods, such as RT-PCR, are essential when RAT results are questionable or inconsistent.
