Clinical laboratory and SARS-CoV-2 infection: where do we stand?
Claudio Galli, Mario Plebani
Abstract
This document mentions serology testing, namely assays to detect SARS-CoV-2 specific antibodies, as being one of the next research priorities While some assays have already become available, several topics are under investigation and discussion on these fields: (1) dynamic of immunological response, (2) development and validation of useful serological assays, (3) comparative studies of available molecular and serological assays, and (4) the eventual role of antibodies on protective immunity Out of urgency on focusing on etiologic diagnosis and the paucity of systematic and reliable data, much less attention has been devoted so far to the potential role of other diagnostic assays in the management of patients with COVID-19, i e the severe form of viral pneumonia caused by SARS-CoV-2 Some early reports have started to shed some light on this;the following sections will detail with the main findings In conclusion, while the etiological diagnosis of COVID-19 has already been established within a very short time from the recognition of this new clinical entity, progress on the role of known and new diagnostic biomarkers is still needed to provide guidance to clinicians and help laboratory professionals establish the right value and relevance of those on the diagnosis, prognosis and monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 infection