Current diagnostic tools for coronaviruses–From laboratory diagnosis to <scp>POC</scp> diagnosis for <scp>COVID</scp> ‐19
Yung‐Chih Wang, Yi‐Tzu Lee, Ting Yang, Jun‐Ren Sun, Ching‐Fen Shen, Chao‐Min Cheng
Abstract
The Coronavirus-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has put tremendous strain on healthcare systems worldwide. It is challenging for clinicians to differentiate COVID-19 from other acute respiratory tract infections via clinical symptoms because those who are infected display a wide range of symptoms. An effective, point-of-care (POC) diagnostic tool could mitigate healthcare system strain, protect healthcare professionals, and support quarantine efforts. We believe that a POC tool can be developed that would be rapid, easy to use, and inexpensive. It could be used in the home, in resource-limited areas, and even in clinical settings. In this article, we summarize the current state of COVID-19 diagnostic methods and make a case for an all-in-one, highly sensitive POC assay that integrates antibody detection, protein detection, and serum cytokine detection to diagnose COVID-19 infection. We believe this article will provide insights into the current state of diagnostics for COVID-19, and promote additional research and tool development that could be exceptionally impactful.