RT-PCR Test: How It Is Different from Antigen Test

84 0

The outbreak of coronavirus has affected so many lives all across the globe. The super infectious virus had already released so many mutants, and there are so many speculations about the next variant from scientists and researchers.

The second wave was the deadliest one. It shattered the core of many countries and has also made people more cautious than ever. We all know that wearing masks, washing or cleaning hands, sanitization, and social isolation might help us from receiving this deadly sickness, but it is still difficult to track down the main source of an infection. Testing is the only way to cease the spread of the virus. The government has ramped up the testing program all across the country. 

Several labs have been created to conduct  RT-PCR tests in Nagpur, Gurgaon, etc. But there are doubts among people regarding RT-PCR or Rapid Antigen Test. Let’s understand both. However, if you are looking for an RT-PCR test in Nagpur, then you can surely visit SpiceHealth to book an appointment.

Difference Between RT-PCR and Antigen Test

Anyone who has symptoms of COVID or is in contact with someone who recently got positive must go for testing. Testing is the only way to deal with this coronavirus. There are many testing locations available that conduct tests with utmost care and provide accurate results. 

RT PCR Test – It is one of the most commonly used tests to inspect the patient suffering from COVID or being in touch with a COVID infection. RT-PCR stands for Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction. It is among the most accurate tests in the country. This test can detect COVID-19 disease long until it becomes infectious, allowing for quick isolation. As a result, this approach can prevent the virus from spreading to additional hosts. In this test, the sample is collected using a swab from the victim’s nose or throat.

Many chemical solutions are used to eliminate components such as proteins and lipids from the sample, leaving only RNA to be extracted. This RNA is a combination of the individual’s genes and the virus’s RNA if the person is infected. Additional short snippets of DNA that are equivalent to particular portions of the produced viral DNA are then added by a laboratory specialist. These bits attach directly to specific portions of viral DNA if the infection is present in the solution. The sample is then placed in the RT PCR machine.

The machine alternates between heating and cooling the solution, triggering biochemical reactions to produce new replicas of the viral DNA targeted portions. To keep duplicating the target portions of viral DNA, the process is performed over and again.

The test is very precise, and that’s why health practitioners suggest taking the RT-PCR test in Nagpur, Mumbai, and all across the country to cease the spread of the virus.

Rapid Antigen Test – As the name suggests, the result is quick. For finding people who are extremely sick, the fast antigen test comes in help. A swab is used to gather samples from the throat and nose. Although the findings can be obtained in 30 minutes, this technique is not determined accurately since it might not check into essential proteins that are present in the early phases of Coronavirus. If the test report comes back negative in this test, then it is advisable to wait for 3-4 days to verify the symptoms before coming in contact with anyone. Further, many health practitioners suggest going for RT- PCR if the test result is negative but there are symptoms in the patient. 

That’s all! Here you know all the relevant information about the RT-PCR test or Rapid Antigen Test. RT- PCR test is more accurate and advisable. To book your RT-PCR test in Nagpur, you can check SpiceHealth.

Related Post