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Current Hepatology Reports
Published in: Current Hepatology Reports 4/2021

Open Access 01-12-2021 | SARS-CoV-2 | Hepatitis C (H Vargas and S Flamm, Section Editors)

Diagnostic Testing for SARS-CoV-2 Infection

Authors: Emmanuel Thomas, Stephanie Delabat, David M. Andrews

Published in: Current Hepatology Reports | Issue 4/2021

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Given the rapid development of diagnostic approaches to test for and diagnose infection with SARS-CoV-2, many options are available to assess infection. Multiple established diagnostic companies are now providing testing platforms whereas initially, testing was being performed with simple PCR-based tests using standard laboratory reagents.

Recent Findings.

Additional testing platforms continue to be developed but challenges with testing, including obtaining testing reagents and other related supplies, are frequently encountered. With time, the testing supply chain will improve and more companies will be providing materials to support these testing efforts. In the USA, the need for rapid assay development and subsequent approval through attainment of emergency use authorization (EUA) has superseded the traditional arduous diagnostic testing approval workflow mandated by the FDA. It is anticipated that the USA will be able to continue to significantly increase its testing capabilities to address this pandemic; however, challenges remain due to the diversity of the performance characteristics of tests being utilized.

Summary

This review provides an overview of the current diagnostic testing landscape, with pertinent information related to SARS-CoV-2 virology and antibody responses, that is available to diagnose infection.
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Metadata
Title
Diagnostic Testing for SARS-CoV-2 Infection
Authors
Emmanuel Thomas
Stephanie Delabat
David M. Andrews
Publication date
01-12-2021
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Current Hepatology Reports / Issue 4/2021
Electronic ISSN: 2195-9595
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11901-021-00567-9

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