Comparison of the SARS-CoV-2 Rapid Antigen Test with Real-Time RT-PCR Assay for Laboratory Diagnosis of COVID-19 in Bangladesh

Background: The authenticity and importance of RT-PCR testing cannot be overstated, for resource-limited settings like Bangladesh, especially in places where RT -PCR facilities are unavailable, rapid antigen could an important supportive tool SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis.
 Objective: aim this study was to compare detection test with viral gene assay.
 Methodology: This cross-sectional performed at National Institute Laboratory Medicine Referral Center (NILMRC), Dhaka between March April 2021. nasopharyngeal swab samples were obtained from COVID-19 suspected cases collected NILMRC virology lab. conducted by Novel Coronavirus Nucleic Acid Diagnostic Kit. Rapid using Standard Q Ag test.
 Results: median age 35.2 years. Among the confirmed cases, 63.0% male patients. A total 68 came out as positive 226 negative both methods. Additionally, four more detected Antigen Testing method. sensitivity specificity found 94.0% 99.0% respectively.
 Conclusions: rt-PCR showed almost similar specificity.
 Bangladesh Journal Infectious Diseases, 2022;9(Suppl_1): S24-S27