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Dr KK Aggarwal 01 November 2020
With input from Dr Monica Vasudev
1123: Most Popular COVID-19 Tests
US FDA has authorized around 230 diagnostic tests for COVID-19.
The tests are segregated as molecular versus antigen tests. Molecular tests identify viral RNA (often through PCR testing), while antigen tests detect viral surface proteins. Either of them can yield rapid tests, but antigen tests are faster.
Antigen tests are not as sensitive as molecular tests, and have a greater likelihood of false negatives.
Emergency use authorization for each antigen test points to use only in symptomatic patients.
Antigen tests are driving the point-of-care testing. Most of these tests require an instrument, but the machines are usually much smaller than PCR analyzers. Only the self-contained BinaxNOW (of the size of a credit card) doesnt need instrumentation. The Trump administration has purchased 150 million BinaxNOW tests from Abbott which are being distributed to schools and nursing homes. This was the test used at the White House when a super spreader event occurred there.
Molecular Tests
Antigen Tests
EUA = emergency use authorization
IFU = instructions for use.
[Source: Medpage Today]
1124: Thrombi and not emboli
[NEJM.org.]
Dr KK Aggarwal
President CMAAO, HCFI and Past National President IMA
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