Diagnostic Modalities for the Detection of SARS-CoV-2: Principles, Advantages, and Pitfalls

Abstract

The rapid spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has become a significant worldwide health concern in recent months. The world has not dealt with such adversities since World War II. The spread has had a devastating and massive impact on global health, the economy, and people's everyday lives. With the crisis looming around the world, there is not yet any report of a clinically approved drug effective against this virus or or vaccine that can prevent people from getting infected. In this article, we describe different types of diagnostic tests currently used to detect SARS-CoV-2 infection. We also present an overview of the basic principles involved, advantages, and the pitfalls associated with each technique. This article also provides an insight into various supplementary diagnostic modalities, including recent advancements in sensing technologies and further clinical improvement and novelties to fight this pandemic.