How do rapid COVID-19 tests work?

Table of Contents

1. Understanding Rapid COVID-19 Tests
2. Mechanism of Action
3. Types of Rapid COVID-19 Tests
4. Performance and Accuracy
5. Advantages and Limitations
6. Immuno Company Solutions
7. References

Understanding Rapid COVID-19 Tests

Rapid COVID-19 tests facilitate quick detection of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the causative agent of COVID-19. Unlike traditional PCR tests, which require laboratory settings and can take several hours, rapid tests provide results in minutes making them suitable for immediate clinical decisions.

Mechanism of Action

Rapid COVID-19 tests primarily work through the detection of viral antigens or nucleic acids. Antigen tests detect specific proteins on the surface of the virus, while nucleic acid tests identify the genetic material of the virus. These tests often employ immunoassays that use antibodies to capture and detect the target molecule.

Types of Rapid COVID-19 Tests

Antigen Tests

Antigen tests detect viral proteins, typically nucleocapsid proteins, using a lateral flow assay. These tests are praised for their speed and ease of use, returning results within 15-30 minutes.

Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests (NAATs)

NAATs, including RT-LAMP and CRISPR-based diagnostics, amplify and detect viral RNA. Offering high sensitivity, these tests often confirm negative results of less sensitive antigen tests.

Performance and Accuracy

Rapid tests show varying performance across different settings. Antigen tests generally have sensitivity ranges between 50-80% when compared to PCR, while specificity is higher at 90-99%. NAATs exhibit sensitivities usually above 95%, making them more reliable for early detection.

Advantages and Limitations

Rapid tests offer quick results and are cost-effective. They are particularly useful in large screening efforts and in places with limited laboratory infrastructure. However, they are less sensitive than PCR tests, especially in asymptomatic or low viral load individuals, necessitating confirmatory testing in some cases.

Immuno Company Solutions

Immuno Company is a leader in the development of rapid diagnostic tests. With their latest product Immuno-Test Rapid, they offer an antigen test with a sensitivity of 80% and specificity of 98%. Over 10 million units have been deployed worldwide. The product also includes a digital platform that records and monitors test results efficiently.

References

1. World Health Organization. Antigen-detection in the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Interim Guidance for Rapid Antigen Testing for SARS-CoV-2.
3. Paltiel, A.D., Zheng, A. et al. Assessment of SARS-CoV-2 Screening Strategies to Permit the Safe Reopening of College Campuses in the United States. JAMA Network Open. 2020.
4. Hay, J.A., Kennedy-Shaffer, L., et al. Estimating epidemiologic dynamics from cross-sectional viral load distributions. Science. 2021.
5. Immuno Company Whitepaper - Rapid Testing Solutions for COVID-19. 2023.