RT-PCR Testing for COVID-19 detection: Advantages and Disadvantages
Have you noticed some symptoms of COVID-19 in you lately? If yes, we recommend delay testing further. If the symptoms persist later than 2 days, medical experts suggest getting a PCR test for COVID with an immediate effect. Nearly every lab in a city is currently involved in RT-PCR testing. Before proceeding with the RT-PCR testing, it is best to understand what it is and what are advantages and disadvantages related to the testing method.
What do you understand by an
RT-PCR test?
RT-PCR
test or the Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction is the lab testing
method that combines the process of reverse transcription of RNA into DNA,
followed by a DNA implication with polymerase Chain reaction. Here, a sample of
sputum and swab is collected from the person’s nasopharyngeal areas with the
help of a long cotton swab. This is a real time testing method and takes a
little longer time to deliver a result. Usually a PCR test takes about 48-72
hours to deliver a report.
Advantages of RT-PCR testing
for COVID detection
Doctors
suggest the use of RT-PCR testing over Rapid Antigen method when it comes to a
confirmed COVID-19 detection. Some of the advantages that people enjoy with the
test are-
·
It is a straight forward and
sensitive Coronavirus detecting procedure
·
The workflow to carry out a
test is very simple and happens in a single test.
·
It delivers 100% accurate
reports every time
·
Since it’s a close-tube
testing procedure, there are no chances of the sample getting contaminated.
Disadvantages of RT-PCR
testing for COVID detection
·
The primary disadvantage we
face is the fact that RT-PCR is a time-consuming procedure.
·
You get your report after 2
days of testing
·
It is a costlier test than Rapid
Antigen Testing
·
This is an uncomfortable
testing method for most of the patients

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