Effect of swab pooling on the Accula point-of-care RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2 detection.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Swab pooling may allow for more efficient use of point-of-care assays for SARS-CoV-2 detection in settings where widespread testing is warranted, but the effects of pooling on assay performance are not well described.

Methods

We tested the Thermo-Fisher Accula rapid point-of-care RT-PCR platform with contrived pooled nasal swab specimens.

Results

We observed a higher limit of detection of 3,750 copies/swab in pooled specimens compared to 2,250 copies/swab in individual specimens. Assay performance appeared worse in a specimen with visible nasal mucous and debris, although performance was improved when using a standard laboratory mechanical pipette compared to the transfer pipette included in the assay kit.

Conclusion

Clinicians and public health of

SUBMITTER: Lancelot M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10440424 | biostudies-literature | 2023

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature