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PODCAST 5 - Part 1 & Part 2

1. Reprint from Australia

2. JAMA publication on the pandemic and respiratory viruses

Since the pandemic began, there has been much discussion about diagnostic testing. Fortunately, we have entered the age where testing is very specific and very sensitive across a wide range of sophisticated platforms. Here are some definitions of diagnostic testing to help to clarify these options

Glossary for Types of Diagnostic Tests

Antigen Test: a diagnostic test that detects specific proteins from the virus¹

Antibody Test: detects antibodies that are made by your immune system in response to a threat, such as a specific virus; not used to diagnose active infection¹

Molecular Test: a diagnostic test that detects genetic material from the virus¹

PCR or Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR): one type of molecular diagnostic test¹

Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT): one type of molecular diagnostic test¹

Isothermal Nucleic Acid Amplification Technology: one type of molecular diagnostic test (using viral RNA)²

Direct to Consumer (DTC) Test: Test: home collection tests available without a prescription, but the sample is analyzed in a laboratory¹

At-home Testing: consumer completes sample collection and testing at home¹

Over the Counter (OTC) Test: consumer completes sample collection and testing at home, without a prescription¹

1. https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/coronavirus-disease-2019-testing-basics. Accessed 11 August 2021.

2. https://www.fda.gov/media/136525/download. Accessed 11 August 2021.