COVID-19 Testing by RT-PCR Method
The RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction) test for COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) is the primary diagnostic method and is considered the “Gold Standard” recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) due to its extremely high accuracy in detecting infection.
What is RT-PCR?
RT-PCR is a direct method for detecting the genetic material (RNA) of the virus. Its principle is to amplify even minute amounts of viral genetic material in a sample to a quantity large enough to be detected by laboratory instruments. This differs from Antigen Test Kits (ATK), which detect viral proteins.
What Can RT-PCR Tell You?
- Confirms COVID-19 infection: It is the most accurate test to confirm the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the body.
- Detects early infection: It can detect the virus even in very small amounts, or as early as 2-3 days after exposure, before symptoms appear.
- Detects both live and inactive virus: RT-PCR can detect the genetic material of the virus whether it’s active or inactive. This means that sometimes, individuals who have recovered may still test positive (which does not necessarily mean they are still contagious).
- Used for travel or work verification: RT-PCR test results are often accepted as official documentation for inter-provincial or international travel, or for entry into certain organizations.
RT-PCR Test Procedure
Generally, the RT-PCR test follows these steps:
Sample Collection (Swab Test):
Nasopharyngeal Swab: A healthcare professional uses a small cotton-tipped swab inserted through the nose until it reaches the back of the nasal cavity to collect secretions.
Oropharyngeal Swab: A healthcare professional uses a cotton-tipped swab to collect secretions from the back of the throat or tonsils.
In some cases, samples may also be collected from saliva or other specimens, depending on the laboratory’s method.
Sample Transportation: The collected sample is placed in a tube containing a specific solution (Viral Transport Medium: VTM or UTM) and sent to a standardized laboratory as quickly as possible, under appropriate temperature conditions.
Laboratory Analysis:
In the lab, genetic material (RNA) is extracted from the sample.
This RNA is then subjected to Reverse Transcription to convert the RNA into DNA (cDNA).
This is followed by the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) process, which amplifies the viral DNA millions of times. During this amplification, the machine detects a fluorescent signal emitted when the viral gene is multiplied.
If the signal is detected according to specific criteria, it indicates the presence of SARS-CoV-2 genetic material in the sample.
Accuracy
RT-PCR has very high sensitivity and specificity, leading to a lower chance of false negatives or false positives compared to ATK tests. However, the accuracy of the test results can be affected by various factors such as the quality of sample collection, the viral load in the body (which is typically highest during the first 3-5 days of symptoms), and sample transportation.
In summary, the RT-PCR test is currently the most reliable method for detecting COVID-19 and remains a crucial tool in diagnosing and controlling the spread of the disease.
Certification of Network Laboratories for COVID-19 Real-time RT-PCR Testing
The Department of Medical Sciences, Ministry of Public Health, provides certification for network laboratories performing COVID-19 testing using the Real-time RT-PCR method.
We can issue test reports in 4 languages: Thai, English, Chinese, and Japanese.
During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, SEMed Living Care Hospital responded to government policies by acting as a screening unit for COVID-19 infections for the public. This initiative was a collaborative effort with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s Health Department, extending to both community outreach and in-hospital services for the public.
SEMed Living Care Hospital: Your Trusted Partner for RT-PCR COVID-19 Testing
SEMed Living Care Hospital is a comprehensive provider of occupational medicine health check-up services. We offer everything from pre-employment health screenings tailored to occupational risk factors, to Electrocardiogram (EKG) services, and even on-site health check-ups for businesses nationwide.
Our team consists of highly knowledgeable and specialized personnel, utilizing standardized medical equipment and advanced technology for data management. This ensures accurate and rapid test results, delivered precisely to meet our clients’ needs. You can even view your health check-up results through our convenient online system.
We are also committed to providing academic support and information to organizations on various health and occupational medicine topics. We offer health consultations and deliver attentive, swift, and efficient services to ensure all our clients are satisfied and receive maximum benefit.
TEL.: 0-2199-2111 To 161 Marketing Department
Or 081-358-6493 (Mr.Aon), 086-368-5317 (Mr.ICE)
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LINE: @semed
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