New Study Shows Saliva-Based SARS-CoV-2 Test to Be at Least as Accurate as Swab Tests

Saliva-based tests could go a long way in relieving the supplies shortages that have hampered COVID-19 testing efforts. The question, though, is whether saliva samples yield results as accurate as those produced by respiratory samples obtained by nasal and nasopharyngeal (NP) swabs. The good news is that a new study suggests that at least one of these saliva-based tests is every bit as reliable as the tests based on samples obtained by swabs. The Diagnostic Challenge Real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT PCR) testing for qualitative detection of SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid is the current gold standard for accuracy. The downside of RT PCR testing is its cost and lack of scalability, due in part to its reliance on upper and lower respiratory specimens that must be collected via NP swabs or bronchoalveolar lavage. In addition to being uncomfortable for patients, the sample collection process must be performed by qualified health care professionals using long cotton swabs, both of which happen to be in short supply right now. The process also sucks up scarce respiratory masks and other personal protective equipment (PPE) to the that it directly exposes the health professional to risk of infection. The Advent of Saliva-Based Tests […]