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The ProGenom gene laboratory now offers SARS-CoV-2 (PCR) tests.
Coronavirus (SARS CoV-2) Tests
The sample collection for the Corona tests can be carried out and ordered independently, without a doctor!
SARS-CoV-2: How Do the Corona Tests Work?
The coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) is a novel virus that causes the respiratory disease COVID-19. Within a few months, the virus has spread so widely that the WHO classifies the situation as a pandemic. The consequences pose an enormous burden on the healthcare system and the economy.
The course of COVID-19 is very nonspecific, varied, and differs from person to person. Mainly mild to moderate courses of the disease have been observed, with asymptomatic cases also known. Severe pneumonia requiring intensive medical care, up to and including death, has also been observed in some patients. According to the RKI, the mortality rate in the European Union is 7.6%.
Interrupt Chains of Infection to Stop the Spread of the Virus!
To interrupt chains of infection, it is necessary to test as many people as possible. Especially suspected cases must be tested for infection with SARS-CoV-2. In addition to a PCR test, there is another test method, the antibody test. However, both tests address different questions, which are explained in more detail in the following graphic.
How PCR and Antibody Tests Differ
With the help of PCR technology, even small amounts of virus particles can be detected very reliably. However, the procedure can only be used for testing for a limited period because the body starts producing specific antibodies over time to fight the coronaviruses.
Once all the viruses are eliminated, testing for SARS-CoV-2 using PCR technology is no longer possible. This is usually the case about ten days after symptoms subside.
The first antibodies can typically be detected in the blood about two to eight days after the first symptoms appear and often remain there for several years after the actual viral infection.
Thus, a PCR test can determine whether a patient is infected with SARS-CoV-2 and how long they are contagious to others. An antibody test, on the other hand, can only detect the viral infection towards the end of the illness. It also offers the possibility of testing people for potential immunity to the corresponding virus.
PCR Test
Testing for SARS-CoV-2 Using PCR Technology
To detect an infection with SARS-CoV-2, we use the highly reliable PCR technology. PCR stands for polymerase chain reaction. This method amplifies the genetic material of the virus. Very few virus particles are needed for this testing procedure to obtain a meaningful test result.
How a Test for Coronaviruses Works
The virus responsible for COVID-19 belongs to the coronavirus family, which includes many other common pathogens. To obtain a reliable test result, it is necessary for the analysis technology to recognize the specific characteristics of SARS-CoV-2.
Unlike humans, viruses do not possess DNA but rather RNA. Since this is where the genetic code of the virus is stored, the RNA must first be extracted from the virus during the SARS-CoV-2 test.
In the next step, the isolated RNA can be converted into DNA using the reverse transcription method. The DNA obtained in this way can then be mixed with specific reagents that specifically search for the unique characteristics of the coronaviruses responsible for COVID-19. If the search is successful, the DNA is amplified so that our analysis device can measure the increase, thus delivering a positive test result.
Reliability of the COVID-19 Test
The testing method we use is very accurate and also works in patients with an asymptomatic course of the disease. Therefore, a positive test result is a reliable proof of an existing infection with the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus.
If no virus particles were detected in a sample, it is assumed that the patient is not infected with SARS-CoV-2. To prevent future infections, however, it is still advisable to follow the generally recommended guidelines for avoiding social contacts, even if the test result is negative.
Validation
We have analyzed 91 samples, mixed from positive, negative, and proficiency testing samples, with 4 different analysis systems.
These included 2 CE-IVD kits and 2 research use only kits.
The Procomcure CE-IVD kit with 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity was the best of the systems tested. We are very satisfied with the performance of the kit.
How a Medical Coronavirus Test Works in Practice
To perform the coronavirus test, we need a gargle sample from the test person. For this purpose, we send a sample kit by mail. The kit contains easy-to-understand instructions and all the necessary utensils to take the sample and safely send it back to us.
The sample is neutralized and preserved in a special stabilization solution. This eliminates the risk of infection, and any virus molecules present can still be detected up to seven days after collection.
Once the sample has been received in our laboratory, we conduct the coronavirus test. The result, protected by a login, is then immediately sent by email or SMS so that the test person has certainty as quickly as possible. The average analysis time is approximately 24 hours after the sample arrives at the laboratory.
PCR Test at a Glance
- Reliable testing procedure with advanced PCR technology
- Test performed in our certified gene laboratory, approved for medical genetics
- Available laboratory capacity for up to 500,000 SARS-CoV-2 analyses per month
- Short analysis time of usually 24 hours
- Secure sample shipping in our own shipping boxes
- Immediate provision of test results by email (protected by a login) or SMS
Highest Standards and Medical Approval
The ProGenom laboratory operates a medically approved, highly automated human genetics laboratory under the highest quality standards such as ISO 22716 and ISO 9001.
Please request prices using the form on the side.
Ordering Process
1. You request a sample kit using the form on the side via email.
2. You will receive an email from us with the corresponding offer.
3. You accept the offer bindingly and then receive an invoice.
4. Once the invoice amount has been received, we will send the sample kit.
5. You can take the sample independently and send the sample kit to the laboratory.
6. Once the analysis is complete, you will receive the result via a secure login to your email address.
Sample Collection for PCR Test
Do you have any questions or problems with the form? We look forward to your contact via email at: office.de@progenom.com
Please Note!
According to § 2 para. 1 of the EpidemieG 1950 as amended, every illness, every death from a notifiable disease, and every suspicion of such an illness must be reported to the district administrative authority (public health office) in whose area the patient or suspected patient is located or where the death occurred, within 24 hours, stating the name, age, and residence and, if possible, specifying the disease.
Examinations to determine the presence or absence of SARS-CoV2 conducted by scientific institutions during a pandemic are not reserved for doctors (§ 2 para. 2 no. 1 in conjunction with § 3 para. 1 ÄrzteG).