Covid Test
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What is a Covid Test?
A Covid Test is a diagnostic approach used to detect whether a patient has been infected by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus (Covid-19).
The Covid-19 infection can be detected with three methods:
- Rapid antigen detection testing (Rapid Test)
- Molecular testing for the genetic material of the virus (PCR Test)
- Serology testing for antibodies (Antibody Test)
Each method has its advantages and disadvantages and provides different indications.
The test results are evaluated along with the clinical picture of the patient and his contacts with potential or suspected cases.
A negative result does not exclude infection. The credibility of the test results depends on the precise time of the patient’s potential infection.
For the selection of the appropriate diagnostic approach and its execution time, you should consult your doctor.
What is a Rapid Test for Covid?
A Rapid Test is an immunological test used to detect Covid-19 antigens in a sample of nasal or nasopharyngeal smear. The rapid antigen procedure is quick, cost-effective, and does not require specialized equipment or knowledge.
However, it has limited sensitivity compared to molecular methods, which means a relatively high probability of false-positive or false-negative results. It is mainly suitable for large-scale mass checks.
What is a PCR Test for Covid?
A PCR Test is an immunological test that uses the polymerase chain reaction to identify Covid-19 genetic material in samples taken from the nasopharynx. Molecular testing is considered the most reliable method for the diagnosis of the coronavirus, due to its high sensitivity and specificity.
However, the time of its application must be chosen carefully. If performed too early or too late in the course of the infection, it could lead to a misleading negative result, even in infected people.
What is an Antibody Test for Covid?
An Antibody Test is a serological test that detects the presence of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 in the patient’s blood. The specific diagnostic test is performed on the later stages of infection when antibodies have been formed.
A positive result confirms that the patient had a recent or past infection and indicates a possible presence of immunity. However, it is not yet known how strong this immunity is and how long it lasts.
Furthermore, people who are asymptomatic or have a mild illness may not develop a high volume of antibodies. So, a negative result does not exclude a previous infection.
Covid Test at PLUS diagnostic center
PLUS diagnostic center performs daily PCR Tests, Rapid Tests, and Antibody Tests for the detection of the Covid-19 coronavirus.
The laboratory has specialized staff and special equipment for the valid diagnosis of Covid-19.
The collection of samples takes place at specially designed areas for SARS-CoV-2 sampling.
Specialized Personnel
Well-trained medical staff that receives and checks the samples, following all the safety protocols.
Special Analyzers Maglumi 800, Sansure Biotech iPonatic
Use of state-of-the-art immunoassay analyzer for valid results in a short period of time. Use of molecular analyzer for the PCR molecular detection of SARS-CoV-2.
Frequently Asked Questions
The test of a Covid Test depends on the diagnostic approach you choose, in consultation with your treating physician. The PCR Test for Covid-19 costs 47€, the Rapid Test for Covid-19 costs 10€, and the Antibody Test for Covid-19 costs 25€.
For a PCR or Rapid Test, the sample is taken from the nasal cavity and/or the pharynx of the patient with a special swab. The procedure is completed within a few seconds.
An Antibody Test requires a blood sample. The procedure is completed within a few minutes.
The results of a Rapid Test are available within one hour after the sample collection.
The results of a PCR Test are available within the same day (under normal circumstances) for samples collected until 13:00. For samples collected after 13:00, the results are available within 24 hours after the sample collection.
The results of an Antibody Test are available within the same day (under normal circumstances).
Diagnostic tests for SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus should be performed when there are clinical symptoms or contact with a confirmed case, following the recommendation of your treating physician.
The PCR Test for Covid should be performed in the acute phase of the infection and in combination with the clinical picture, the medical history of the patient and other epidemiological information.
The Antibody Test for Covid should be performed in the acute phase of the infection, as the IgM antibodies increase from the 7th day of the infection. It can also be done at a later stage to document, when necessary, a previous Covid-19 infection.
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