The Difference Between PCR Testing and Antibody Tests
In recent times, gaining a better understanding of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) has become a priority for many health organizations and governments around the world. To find out who has the virus and who does not, the two most commonly used strategies are PCR testing (Polymerase Chain Reaction testing) and antibody tests. While these two tests are both used to tell whether someone has COVID-19, there are major differences between the two that must be understood.
What is a PCR Test?
A Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test is a procedure that consists of obtaining a swab or sample from the individual and testing it in a laboratory to know if the person has the virus.
Once the sample has been taken, it is sent to a laboratory and then processed using a method called the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). PCR technology involves taking the sample that was taken and duplicating the virus’ unique DNA sequence so it can be detected. With the help of special chemicals and enzymes, the PCR process yields enough of the virus’ genetic material to determine if the person is positive or negative.
Most PCR tests are highly accurate and can detect the virus in its early stages, before a person even starts showing symptoms. This is especially important because the sooner an individual knows their status, the sooner preventive measures can be taken, such as the proper hygiene protocols, social distancing, and wearing a mask among other measures. As such, PCR testing is an immensely helpful tool for preventing the further spread of the virus and could save many lives.
What is an Antibody Test?
An Antibody Test, also known as a serology test, is another type of test to detect the Coronavirus. Unlike the PCR test, this procedure doesn’t actively look for the virus.
In order to administer an antibody test, the individual’s blood is taken and the immune system’s reaction to the virus is analyzed. The presence of antibodies, proteins produced by the white blood cells to fight and neutralize the virus, indicates that it was present in the past, even if symptoms never appeared.
That means if there are no antibodies, it doesn’t necessarily mean the person doesn’t have COVID-19. A recent study has shown that it can take up to 11 days for antibodies to show, which could be too late for some people as the virus would’ve already been spread by then.
The Differences Between PCR Tests and Antibody Tests
- The Main Purpose
The main purpose of the two tests is slightly different. PCR tests look for the genetic material of the virus and the current or recent presence of the virus in the individual. Antibody tests, on the other hand, look at how the body is responding to the virus, but it can’t tell you if the virus is currently present.
- Accuracy
When it comes to accuracy, PCR tests are generally more reliable compared to antibody tests. While PCR tests are very accurate in detecting the virus, antibody tests lack this accuracy. Antibody tests are great for detecting the previous presence of a virus, but it can’t tell you if you currently have it.
- What They Tell Us
PCR tests can be used to diagnose whether someone currently has the virus, while the antibody tests can be used to detect if a person had been infected with the virus in the past.
- Availability
When it comes to availability, PCR tests are more available than antibody tests. That is because PCR tests can be used as soon as the individual starts exhibiting symptoms, while antibody tests are usually taken in people who have already recovered from the virus. As such, they are not as widely available.
The two types of tests used to detect the Coronavirus (COVID-19) differ in many ways. PCR testing requires a sample, usually of mucus or saliva, to be taken and processed in a laboratory to detect the virus. Antibody tests take the individual’s blood and analyze the antibody response of the immune system to determine if the person has had the virus in the past.
Overall, PCR testing is the most reliable option when it comes to diagnosing if someone currently has the virus, whereas antibody tests are great for detecting the previous presence of the virus. It is important to understand the differences between PCR testing and antibody tests in order to have a full understanding of the impact of the Coronavirus on people’s health.
