Comparison Between GenBody COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Kit and SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR.

BACKGROUND: SARS-CoV-2 rapid antigen test can supplement the nucleic acid amplification method. METHODS: We calculated the sensitivity and specificity of the GenBody COVID-19 antigen assay using 155 nasopharyngeal specimens. RESULTS: The sensitivity in samples with their respective cycle thresholds varied from 33.3% to 100%; the sensitivity of the antigen assay was inferior to that of the gold standard polymerase chain reaction test. CONCLUSIONS: Considering the relatively fast speed of the antigen test and high sensitivity at a low cycle threshold value indicating a high viral load, the GenBody COVID-19 antigen test can be an easy and quick measure for detecting SARS-CoV-2 in individuals with high viral loads.