False-negative real-time polymerase chain reaction tests in COVID-19 patients: an epidemiological analysis of 302 patients.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

Patients who arrive at the emergency department (ED) with COVID-19, who test negative at the first real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), represent a clinical challenge. This study aimed to evaluate if the clinical manifestation at presentation, the laboratory and imaging results, and the prognosis of COVID-19 differ in patients who tested negative at the first RT-PCR compared with those who tested positive and also to evaluate if comorbid conditions patient-related or the period of arrival are associated with negative testing.

Study design

We retrospectively collected clinical data of patients who accessed the ED from March 1 to May 15, 2020.

Methods

We compared clinical variables, comorbid conditions, and clinical outcomes in the two groups by univ

SUBMITTER: Caramello V 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8455250 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature