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. 2021 Feb 28;22(5):2459.
doi: 10.3390/ijms22052459.

COVID-19 and Diagnostic Testing for SARS-CoV-2 by RT-qPCR-Facts and Fallacies

Stephen Bustin  1 , Reinhold Mueller  2 , Gregory Shipley  3 , Tania Nolan  1
Affiliations

COVID-19 and Diagnostic Testing for SARS-CoV-2 by RT-qPCR-Facts and Fallacies

Stephen Bustin et al. Int J Mol Sci. .

Abstract

Although molecular testing, and RT-qPCR in particular, has been an indispensable component in the scientific armoury targeting SARS-CoV-2, there are numerous falsehoods, misconceptions, assumptions and exaggerated expectations with regards to capability, performance and usefulness of the technology. It is essential that the true strengths and limitations, although publicised for at least twenty years, are restated in the context of the current COVID-19 epidemic. The main objective of this commentary is to address and help stop the unfounded and debilitating speculation surrounding its use.

Keywords: COVID-19; RT-qPCR; SARS-CoV-2; molecular diagnostics; quantification cycle.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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