At PROLIPSI IATRIKI, we carry out highly reliable molecular control tests for the detection of SARS-CoV-2, but also in combination with testing for influenza viruses. We also perform a Rapid Antigen test as well as an antibody test.

MOLECULAR TEST (PCR)

Molecular testing is performed by taking a nasopharyngeal swab (for a few seconds) and using molecular virus detection techniques. For the diagnosis of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, use real time PCR, which is undoubtedly the most valid method of diagnosing a new coronavirus, according to the World Health Organization, given the excellent sensitivity and specificity it shows in samples of the upper or lower respiratory tract.

Molecular tests tell us if someone has the virus at the time of the test, but cannot determine if someone previously had the disease.

Method

After extraction of nucleic acids from the sample in an automatic nucleic acid isolation system (MagDEA DNA/RNA 200 virus) RT-PCR is performed. Conserved region-specific primers and double-labeled Taqman technology probes are used to amplify and detect SARS-CoV-2 RNA extracted from biological samples. The method detects part of the E (Envelope) and RdRp (RNA dependent RNA polymerase) genes and part of the S gene, simultaneously with RdRp.

Internal Process Control (IPC), which is added during RNA extraction is detected in the same reaction with a labeled probe. RNA P (of the human gene) allows detection of inhibition by RT-PCR and acts as a control, that viral RNA was isolated from the biological sample.

A further level of control is achieved with Internal System Control (ISC). The ISC consists of primers and probes to detect a conserved gene, β actin, in the biological sample extract. ISC helps prevent false negative results due to insufficient quantity or improper transport.