Diagnostic
tests
Laboratory
tests currently available
| 1. |
Molecular
tests (PCR) or RAPID test
PCR can detect genetic material of the SARS virus in
various specimens (blood, stool, respiratory secretions, urine
and other body fluids). It can be done in the early stage of the illness, i.e. 1-2 days after the onset of symptoms. |
| |
| 2. |
LAMP (loop-mediated isothermal amplication) test
Developed by the microbiology team of HKU, this test provides a rapid, inexpensive and simple tool for diagnosis of SARS patients after the first week of disease onset. This method relies on recognition of the target DNA and is highly specific. However, this does not allow quantification of SARS-CoV RNA and is less sensitive than the real-time PCR assays. |
| |
| 3. |
Antibody
tests
Antibody tests by either ELISA (Enzyme Linked ImmunoSorbant Assay) or FIA (Fluorescent Immunoantibldies Assay) detects the presence of antibodies in the serum of SARS patients. Rising titre of IgG can be detected between day 7 to day 10 after the onset of symptoms. These are reliable tests but are not useful for early diagnosis. |
All these tests are only available to patients in hospitals.
If you have had close contact with a SARS patient and/or have developed sudden fever of 38oC, consult a doctor immediately. You may be referred to the hospital for the above diagnostic tests.
Medical
Update |
What is SARS? |
Symptoms and Signs of SARS | The
cause of SARS | Transmission Routes and Risk Factors
| Incubation period |
Diagnostic tests
| Treatments available and outcomes
of treatment |
Case-Fatality Ratios
|
