Test Kit Options

PCR Test

This test is also referred to as the “Molecular Test”, the “Viral RNA Test,” the “Nucleic Acid Test,” or “molecular photocopying.”

The PCR test for COVID-19 determines if a patient is currently infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It is the most accurate way to determine if someone is infected.

The sample is taken with a nasal swab, an oral swab, or a collection kit for saliva or other bodily fluids.

After the RNA is extracted from the sample and turned into DNA, the polymerase chain reaction test amplifies (or “copies”) the DNA so that it can be genetically or molecularly analyzed.

With our lab, results are available in under 48 hours.

For more information, see Coronavirus Disease Testing Basics from the FDA.

Rapid Antigen Test

This test determines if a patient is currently infected with the virus by identifying SARS-CoV-2 protein fragments (or antigens) in a sample.

The sample is taken with a nasal or throat swab.

The accuracy is typically lower for these tests, but there are recent options that are more accurate.

Results are available in minutes.

For more information, see Coronavirus Disease Testing Basics from the FDA.

Antibody Test

This test is also referred to as a “Serology Test.” It may determine if a patient has been infected with the virus in the past.

A blood sample is drawn and analyzed to identify antibodies that the body has developed in response to SARS-CoV-2.

The accuracy of this test is low, with a false negative rate of 0-30% depending on the study.

Because it takes weeks after infection for antibodies to be detected, patients risk getting a false negative result if they take the test too early.

Results are available within a few days.

For more information, see Coronavirus Disease Testing Basics from the FDA.