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COVID-19 Antibody Tests: Calculator for Interpreting Test Results

2020

Antibody testing can determine previous exposure to SARS-CoV-2 virus. This interactive calculator, linked to the article below* on antibody testing for SARS-CoV-2 virus, allows users to vary the prior probability of infection, the sensitivity of SARS-CoV-2 antibody testing, and the specificity of SARS-CoV-2 antibody testing.

Key points made in the article accompanying the interactive include: (1) antibody testing is likely to be most useful 2 weeks after infection, (2) sensitivity and specificity will vary over time and results will need to be contextualized with that in mind, and (3) antibody testing could play a role in patients with late presentation, prolonged symptoms, or negative results from reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests. The authors acknowledge that there is an evidence gap in terms of whether individuals with SARS-CoV-2 antibodies have protective immunity.

*Watson J, Richter A, Deeks J. Testing for SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies. The BMJ 2020; 370: m3325. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmj.m3325

 

Source:

COVID-19 Antibody Tests: Calculator for Interpreting Test Results. Interactive. In: Watson J, Richter A, Deeks J. Testing for SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies. BMJ Interactive 2020; 370. https://www.bmj.com/content/370/bmj.m3325/infographic