Serology testing is not intended as a primary diagnostic test for COVID-19.
SEROLOGY ANTIBODY TEST OVERVIEW
The serology testing provides evidence that the patient has likely been exposed to the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
The IgG serologic immunoassay is qualitative and reported as positive, negative, or equivocal. These tests do not provide an antibody titer.
Serology testing should not be used as the sole basis for diagnosis nor assurance of immunity.
USE CASE OVERVIEW
The antibody response to SARS-CoV-2 is not typical as there does not appear to be an early IgM response. Early published literature suggests that an antibody response may be detected in about 30% at 4 days after onset of symptoms, 75% by 8-10 days. The clinical utility of the immunoassay include investigating who has been in contact with the virus, exposure studies for a population, assessing if an individual with recent symptoms suggesting COVID-19, but who did not undergo molecular diagnostic testing or who was tested but results were negative, likely had COVID-19, and helping assess those who suffer COVID-19 symptoms, yet test negative for SARS-CoV-2.
Early published literature suggests that an antibody response may be detected in about 30% at 4 days after onset of symptoms, 75% by 8-10 days.
What do your results mean for patients without symptoms at the time of testing?
NEGATIVE
Your test was NEGATIVE for IgG antibodies–this does not rule out the possibility that you are currently infected with COVID-19. You may not notice symptoms for up to 2 weeks following exposure to the virus that causes COVID-19. You must continue to practice social distancing and any appropriate instructions on exposure. You should contact a health care provider if you experience symptoms such as fever, chills, headaches, difficulty breathing, etc.
POSITIVE
Your test was POSITIVE for IgG antibodies. Because this test only determines the presence of IgG antibodies, additional testing is required to determine if you currently are infected. We recommend going to a COVID-19 testing center so that you can have a nasal swab test to confirm active infection. It is very important to know that medical professionals are unsure if having antibodies to this virus protects you against future infection. Therefore, you should continue to practice social distancing. If further confirmatory testing is not performed, it is recommended that you self-isolate for 7 days after the positive test. If you have symptoms during this period, such as fever, chills, headaches, difficulty breathing, etc., you should contact a health care provider immediately.
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DERMATOLOGY NEAR ME
DERICK DERMATOLOGY
Derick Dermatology is a leading authority in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatological services with 23 stunning dermatology practices in Chicago, IL, and Tampa Bay, FL. Our dedicated dermatologists offer exceptional dermatological services for both adult and pediatric patients. Please complete our online form or call our main number at (866) 337-4251 to schedule a consultation.
PLEASE NOTE THAT DERICK DERMATOLOGY HAS ALL RIGHT AND AUTHORITY UNDER THE LAW TO DISCLOSE TO PUBLIC HEALTH AUTHORITIES ANY TEST RESULT INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, YOUR NAME AND RESIDENCE.
