Simply schedule online and then come to our Lakeview or West Loop location

Simply schedule online and then come to our Lakeview or West Loop location

ANTIGEN TESTS:

• Whereas molecular tests require specialized equipment for processing samples, an antigen test is simpler, because it requires smaller devices that are easy to transport. Their design is similar to, say, a pregnancy test.

• How does the test work? These tests differ from molecular tests such as RT-PCR because they are designed to detect the presence of viral proteins using simple immunochromatography methods, commonly referred to as lateral flow assays. Rapid antigen tests target the SARS-CoV-2, Influenza A & B or Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), the most abundant protein expressed by the virus. They directly assess for the presence of viral proteins, making them different from serology tests, which look for antibodies produced by the host in response to the infection. Thus, rapid antigen tests assess for acute infection only, not prior infection or response to vaccination.

• How is a sample obtained? As with molecular tests, a sterile swab is inserted into your nose or throat to obtain a specimen (see details above)—although throat swabs may be less common these days.

• How accurate are they? According to the CDC, antigen test sensitivity varies depending on the time in the course of one’s infection, but is considered to have “moderate to high” sensitivity during peak viral load. Compared to molecular tests, antigen tests are more likely to generate false negative results, especially when performed on people who don’t have symptoms.

PCR TESTS:

• Still, for the diagnosis of people seriously ill (with a presumed case of COVID-19, Flu & RSV), doctors will generally use a PCR test, because false-negative tests might result in inadequate treatment.  

• If you are traveling, you might be required to get tested, too. The location you are visiting might require a certain type of test and approved testing locations as well. 

• Dr. Campbell says a PCR test probably makes the most sense for travel. “You want to detect the virus early, and the PCR test is the most sensitive for that to make sure you are not infectious for your trip,” he says, acknowledging that many place