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A Systematic Analysis of Laboratory-Guided Diagnosis and Management of Covid-19: Challenges and Recommendations

Author

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  • Whelan Shane
  • Keaney Daniel
  • Lucey Brigid
  • Finn Karen

Abstract

We conducted a comprehensive analysis of patient demographics and laboratory tests encompassing Real Time PCR (RT-qPCR) and serology for SARS-CoV-2 in addition to blood components and clinical blood markers for COVID-19 disease. All relevant literature was included up to 15 July 2020 and multiple studies were analysed in tandem to correlate findings. For RT-qPCR, nasopharyngeal swabs are the most suitable samples based on detection rates by sample, but may require repeat testing. One-week post-symptom onset, serological testing is a more stable marker. Antibody titers have been linked to disease severity. Several clinical blood components and markers have been reported to be prognostically useful; however, care is needed when making interpretation owing to the association between raised levels of these being found for the co-morbidities that predispose to worse prognosis in COVID-19. Challenges in the current study when finding the information presented in this paper suggest the need for a quality assured database that outlines the complete set of results, anonymised patient data for each entry and a set of internationally-agreed guidelines for complete laboratory testing, documentation and open-access reporting. We suggest that such information would be useful to help with patient diagnosis and management, worldwide.

Suggested Citation

  • Whelan Shane & Keaney Daniel & Lucey Brigid & Finn Karen, 2020. "A Systematic Analysis of Laboratory-Guided Diagnosis and Management of Covid-19: Challenges and Recommendations," Journal of Diseases, Conscientia Beam, vol. 7(1), pages 14-32.
    • Handle: RePEc:pkp:joudis:v:7:y:2020:i:1:p:14-32:id:2462
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