SARS-CoV-2 serological assay and viral testing: a report of professional football setting

Postgrad Med J. 2022 Jul 1;98(1161):529-532. doi: 10.1136/postgradmedj-2021-140176.

Abstract

Purpose of the study: PCR is the current standard test for the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, due to its limitations, serological testing is considered an alternative method for detecting SARS-CoV-2 exposure. In this study, we measured the level of SARS-CoV-2 IgM and IgG antibodies of male professional football players and compared the results with the standard PCR test to investigate the association between the two tests.

Study design: Participants were male professional football players and team officials. Nasopharyngeal swabs and peripheral blood samples were collected for the PCR and serological tests, respectively. Also, previous records of COVID-19 testing and symptoms were gathered. Those with previous positive PCR tests who tested negative for the second time were considered to be recovered patients.

Results: Of the 1243 subjects, 222 (17.9%) were seropositive, while 29 (2.3%) tested positive for the SARS-CoV-2 PCR test. Sixty percent of symptomatic cases with a negative PCR were found to be seropositive. The mean level of IgM was significantly higher in PCR-positive and symptomatic subjects, whereas the recovered cases showed significantly higher levels of IgG.

Conclusion: Our study revealed an inconsistency of results between the two tests; therefore, although application of serological assays alone seems insufficient in diagnosing COVID-19 disease, the findings are beneficial in the comprehension and the management of the disease.

Keywords: COVID-19; sports medicine.

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19 Testing
  • COVID-19* / diagnosis
  • Female
  • Football*
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulin G
  • Immunoglobulin M / analysis
  • Male
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Sensitivity and Specificity

Substances

  • Immunoglobulin G
  • Immunoglobulin M