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April 28, 2025
RESPIRATORY HEALTH
Article
What is the Difference Between PCR and Antigen Testing?
Respiratory viral infections remain a significant cause of healthcare visits worldwide, with the COVID-19 pandemic emphasizing the critical need for timely and accurate diagnostic testing. Testing capabilities have advanced in recent years, and various options exist, differing in accuracy, detection window, viral markers, and use cases.
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and antigen testing are routine techniques for detecting respiratory viruses such as SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and others. Healthcare providers must stay informed about the capabilities and applications of antigen and PCR tests to maximize diagnostic accuracy and ensure efficient resource utilization for better patient care.
View the infographic below to understand how PCT and antigen tests differ.
References:
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2. Hanson KE, Azar MM, Banerjee R, et al. Molecular testing for acute respiratory tract infections: clinical and diagnostic recommendations from the idsa’s diagnostics committee. Clin Infect Dis. 2020;71(10):2744-2751. doi:10.1093/cid/ciaa508
3. Rapid Influenza Diagnostic Tests | Influenza (Flu) | CDC. Accessed January 6, 2025. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/hcp/testing-methods/clinician_guidance_ridt.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/diagnosis/clinician_guidance_ridt.htm
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5. Testing for COVID-19 | COVID-19 | CDC. Accessed August 28, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/covid/testing/index.html
6. https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/safety-communications/home-covid-19-antigen-tests-take-steps-reduce-your-risk-false-negative-results-fda-safety. Accessed August 28, 2024. https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/safety-communications/home-covid-19-antigen-tests-take-steps-reduce-your-risk-false-negative-results-fda-safety
7. Algorithm to assist in the interpretation of influenza testing results and clinical decision-making during periods when influenza viruses are circulating in the community | CDC. Accessed August 27, 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/diagnosis/algorithm-results-circulating.htm
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11. Davies S, Boller E, Chase J, Beaubrun A, Miller C, Jensen I. A cost-consequence analysis of the Xpert Xpress CoV-2/Flu/RSV plus test strategy for the diagnosis of influenza-like illnesses. J Med Econ. 2024;27(1):430-441. doi:10.1080/13696998.2024.2313391
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