Question

How do you Diagnosis SARS, MERS, and Covid-19? List and describe the tests performed and the differences in the diagnosis. If any sources are used please list below thank you.

Answer 1

SARS - Polymerase chain reaction - This detects the genetic material of the SARS virus in specifmens of a patient's blood, stool or nasal secretions.

Serologic testing - Antibodies to the SARS virus are tested in the patient's blood. These include IgG and IgM antibodies.

Viral culture - A small sample of the patient's tissue or fluid that may be infected is placed in a container along with cells in which the SARS virus can grow and if the SARS virus growan s in the culture, it will causes changes in the cells that can be seen under a microscope.

MERS

PCR - Upper and lower respiratory tract samples (sputum, nasopharyngeal samples) and blood can be used as samples.

IgM/IgG testing – Similar to SARS, antibody testing of antibodies to the virus can be detected using ELISA. These can be used for screening as antibodies are formed only a few days after symptoms appear.

Viral culture in cell lines. This is similar to the SARS virus.

COVID-19

PCR – Nasopharyngeal swabs are tested using PCR kits to detect a viral nucleic acid.

Antibody testing – Antibody testing with IgG and IgM antibodies to the virus can be detected using ELISA. This is still not being done widely. Various regulatory authorities have varying guidelines on antibody testing for COVID-19. It has the potential to be used as a screening tool in suspected cases and also to monitor immune response in affected individuals.

Viral culture- This is only for research purposes. This is not used for routine diagnosis in the clinical setting.