The CareStart COVID-19 Antigen Test is a rapid diagnostic test designed to detect the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. This test is useful for the qualitative detection of viral antigens in nasal swab samples collected from individuals suspected of having COVID-19.
Do you want to have a test for COVID-19 with the CareStart Antigen Test? Let’s read this article!
How Does CareStart Covid-19 Antigen Test Work?
Here’s a general overview of how the CareStart COVID-19 Antigen Test works.
Sample collection
The test requires a respiratory sample, typically collected by a healthcare professional using a nasal or nasopharyngeal swab. The swab is inserted into the nostril or the back of the nasal cavity to collect a sample.
Extraction
The test kit provides extraction reagents that help release the viral proteins from the swab.
Test Cartridge Preparation
The test kit includes a test cartridge containing all the necessary test reagents. The healthcare professional places a few drops of the extracted sample onto the cartridge.
Test Procedure
The next step is inserting the prepared into the analyzer, a portable device for processing the test. The design of the analyzer is such that it automates and standardizes the testing process.
Immunoassay
Inside the test cartridge, the extracted sample mixes with specific antibodies with the coat on the cartridge’s test strip. The design of antibodies is such that it binds to the SARS-CoV-2 antigens if they are present in the sample.
Results Interpretation
The analyzer analyzes the test cartridge and provides a visual result. Typically, the presence of colored lines indicates a positive or negative result.
Is CareStart Covid-19 Antigen Test Accurate?
Sensitivity and specificity are two important measures used to evaluate the accuracy of diagnostic tests. The reported sensitivity and specificity values for the CareStart test may vary depending on the specific kit version and the stage of infection.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Virology in December 2020 evaluated the performance of the CareStart COVID-19 Antigen Test.
How Long Does It Take To Get Results From CareStart Covid-19 Antigen Test?
It is a rapid diagnostic test that provides quick results. Typically, the test can provide results within 10-15 minutes. This quick turnaround time makes it useful for point-of-care testing and rapid screening purposes.
Can I Perform CareStart Covid-19 Antigen Test At Home?
Testing is limited to laboratories certified under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA), 42 U.S.C. §263a, that meets the requirements to perform moderate, high, or waived complexity tests.
The CareStart™ COVID-19 Antigen Home Test is a lateral flow immunoassay intended for the qualitative detection of nucleocapsid protein antigens from SARS-CoV-2.
- Fast and easy to self-test anywhere
- Easy to interpret the results using a mobile application
- Qualitatively detect the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein
- Use for nasal swab specimen
- Fast results only in 10 minutes
Are There Limitations Or Drawback Of This Test?
Certain limitations and drawbacks are associated with using the CareStart COVID-19 Antigen Test or any other antigen test for diagnosing COVID-19. Here are some important considerations.
Sensitivity
Antigen tests are generally less sensitive than PCR tests, especially in detecting low viral loads or asymptomatic cases. It means that there is a higher chance of false-negative results, where the test may not detect an active infection.
False-Negative results
Even though antigen tests can detect the presence of viral antigens, there is still a possibility of false-negative results. It can occur if the viral load is too low at the time of testing or if there is a handling error during the sample collection.
Confirmation with PCR
In cases where the CareStart Antigen Test yields a negative result but there is a high suspicion of COVID-19 due to symptoms or exposure, it is often necessary to confirm the result with a PCR test, which is more sensitive and specific.
Variants of concern
Antigen tests may have varying performance in detecting certain variants of SARS-CoV-2.. Manufacturers and healthcare professionals continuously monitor and adapt tests to address these concerns.
Professional Administration
The CareStart COVID-19 is primarily for use by healthcare professionals or trained individuals in a healthcare setting. It may not be authorized or suitable for at-home testing or self-administration in some regions.
Conclusion
CareStart COVID-1t, and have concerns or questions about the results, it’s advisable to consult with healthcare professionals who can provide guidance and interpret the results in the context of your specific situation.
FAQ’s
How much does the CareStart COVID-19 Antigen Test cost?
It’s best to contact your healthcare provider or testing facility or check with the manufacturer for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
Can the CareStart COVID-19 Antigen Test detect new variants of the virus?
The performance of antigen tests in detecting specific variants may vary, and some variants may have mutations that could affect the accuracy of antigen tests. Manufacturers and healthcare professionals make ongoing monitoring and adaptations to address variant concerns.
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