Measuring the Serologic Response to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2: Methods and Meaning

Clin Lab Med. 2020 Dec;40(4):603-614. doi: 10.1016/j.cll.2020.08.014. Epub 2020 Aug 8.

Abstract

The entire spectrum of diagnostic testing, from reagent supply to test performance, has been a major focus during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The hope for serologic testing is that it will provide both epidemiologic information about seroprevalence as well as individual information about previous infection. This information is particularly helpful for high-risk individuals who may be outside of the viral shedding window, such as children with suspected multisystem inflammatory syndrome. It is not yet understood whether serologic testing can be interpreted in terms of protective immunity. These concerns must be addressed using highly sensitive and specific tests.

Keywords: COVID-19; COVID-19 serology; SARS-CoV-2.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Betacoronavirus* / immunology
  • Betacoronavirus* / isolation & purification
  • COVID-19
  • COVID-19 Testing
  • Clinical Laboratory Techniques / methods*
  • Coronavirus Infections* / diagnosis
  • Coronavirus Infections* / epidemiology
  • Coronavirus Infections* / immunology
  • Coronavirus Infections* / prevention & control
  • Humans
  • Immunity, Humoral / immunology
  • Pandemics* / prevention & control
  • Pneumonia, Viral* / epidemiology
  • Pneumonia, Viral* / immunology
  • Pneumonia, Viral* / prevention & control
  • Protective Factors
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Seroepidemiologic Studies*