Performance evaluation of influenza a rapid antigen test and PCR among nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal samples.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

Rapid antigen test (RAT) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using nasopharyngeal (NP) or oropharyngeal (OP) swab specimens are the two main testing techniques used for laboratory diagnosis of influenza in clinical practice. However, performance variations have been observed not only between techniques, but also between different specimens. This study evaluated the differences in performance between specimens and testing techniques to identify the best combination in clinical practice.

Methods

Both NP and OP samples from suspected influenza patients collected in the 2023/4-2023/5 Flu-season in Xiamen, China, were tested for RAT and quantitative PCR. The testing performance of the different specimens and testing techniques were recorded and evaluated.

Results

SUBMITTER: Su X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11234145 | biostudies-literature | 2024 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature