The Meaning of Coronavirus Antibody Test
Currently, the FDA has approved only two types of viral tests to identify coronavirus in patients. These include the molecular test and antigen test.
Recently, lab technicians are using another approach known as coronavirus antibody tests to detect whether COVID-19 infected a person before. The test primarily measures the presence of antibodies in the blood produced against coronavirus. However, a positive result doesn’t imply that an individual has coronavirus infection at present, but one could still be contagious.
The coronavirus antibody test differs from the other two tests, which examine the active virus signs during a test. They are also faster and simpler to perform than an antibody test.
How the Coronavirus Antibody Tests Work
For a new coronavirus patient, an evident blood antibody level can be achieved one to two weeks after infection.
The fundamental approach of the antibody test includes exploring the binding of targeted antibodies to specific antigens.
During the test, the viral antigens are incubated with the blood samples on an analysis platform. Results will show positive if the blood has an antibody against COVID-19, due to viral antigen binding.
The viral antigens used to detect antibodies against coronaviruses include spike protein, receptor-binding domain, and nucleocapsid.
The tests can also detect antibodies such as
IgM (the first production of antibodies upon infection)
IgA (protects mucosa)
IgG (most rich blood antibodies that show later after infection)
The Accuracy of the Coronavirus Antibody Test
Its accuracy depends on several factors, such as the types of antibodies on analysis, the infection period, antigen specificity, and test execution.
Usually, the human immune system begins creating antibodies between one to three weeks post-infection. Therefore, performing a test immediately after the viral exposure can’t identify antibodies in the blood. Additionally, there are likelihoods of obtaining false-negative or false-positive results.
A false-positive implies positive test results in the antibody without antibodies in the blood. Alternatively, a false-negative result means though a person has detectable antibody levels in the blood, the antibody test will indicate negative.
The likelihood of obtaining false-positive results increases in populations that have a low prevalence of COVID-19 infection.
Those who feel they have symptoms even after the test can perform diagnostic tests to check for active viruses.
Benefits of Coronavirus Antibody Tests
Research performed on individuals with new coronavirus infection has implied a possibility of reducing viral reinfection due to the presence of antibodies in the blood. However, there is no evidence on whether the antibodies can deliver any lasting benefits.
Nevertheless, a coronavirus antibody test can specifically be crucial to identify a population previously exposed to the virus and has acquired group immunity.
Additionally, the test kit can detect people who have recovered from a recent COVID-19 infection and qualified for donating blood needed for recuperating plasma therapy.
Final Thoughts from the Recover
As researchers continue to search for the possible cure of coronavirus, there is still no vaccine or drug developed to treat it.
However, if you think you might have COVID-19 infections, tested positive, or have fully recovered, the coronavirus antibody test is an excellent option.
Many health providers and rehab centers near you are already performing these tests. If you need more information, ask a local hospital to know how to begin the procedure.
