Progression / remission of Coronavirus disease 2019: Data driven recommendations for repeating SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid amplification tests

ABSTRACT AimsThis short study was performed to better understand the time frame associated with changes in SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid testing and provide recommendations for repeat testing. Recommendations were useful as little guidance is available for repeat testing in patients being followed expectantly for changes in disease. MethodsA review of laboratory data of tests for SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid was performed selecting patients who had changing results. Time between changes in test results was determined to provide guidance for repeat testing. ResultsThe interquartile range of data for patients who had a negative to positive change in lab testing (“progression”) was 6-16 days (Median 9). The interquartile range of data for patients who had a positive to negative change in test results (“remission”) was 9-21 days (Median 14). ConclusionBecause sampling of the nares or nasopharynx can be variable, repeat testing should be performed swiftly when symptomatic patients are negative. The data in this short study varies widely, so authors recommend repeat testing during a period of time associated with the interquartile range or median (see results above).