Turnaround times
The quoted turnaround time is from sample receipt in the laboratory, to results authorisation in the Laboratory Information Management system. The times do not include transport of specimen to the laboratory or the administrative process to print and post/email reports. Service users must allow for transport and reporting time when ordering tests.
Clinical background:
SARS-COV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) is the strain of coronavirus that causes COVID-19. Two different assays are available for testing.
SARS-CoV-2 antibody
- Detects total antibody to nucleocapsid protein
- Will detect antibody response to past SARS-CoV-2 infection.
- Will NOT detect antibody response to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination.
Suggested use: Testing for evidence of prior SARS-CoV-2 infection is clinically indicated (where no PCR result is available), e.g. PIMS-TS.
SARS-CoV-2 S1/S2 IgG
- Detects IgG class antibody to spike protein
- Will detect antibody response to past SARS-CoV-2 infection.
- Will also detect antibody response to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination.
Suggested use: When considering monoclonal antibodies for the treatment of COVID-19 in admitted patients. Testing of post-vaccination response is NOT recommended.
It should be noted that not everyone will develop detectable antibodies after infection. Samples received for testing will be tested using the SARS CoV-s S1/S2 IgG unless specifically requested otherwise.
Specimen container paediatric:
Clotted blood.
Specimen container adult:
Clotted blood – Gold SST.
Minimum volume paediatric:
1ml
Minimum volume adult:
1ml
Special requirements:
Send to laboratory as quickly as possible. If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C.
Sample Stability:
Stable for up to 24 hrs.
Transport requirements:
Standard
Add On Test:
N/A
Quality Assurance:
UK National External Quality Assurance Scheme (UKNEQAS).
Interpretation:
Interpretative comments are added to reports where applicable.
Reference Ranges:
N/A
Factors Affecting Result:
If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C.
Referenced Documents:
N/A
Other Info:
N/A