PCR and antigen test
In this article we will provide you the difference between PCR and antigen test and Similarities.
what does PCR mean
PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) is a molecular biology technique that allows millions of copies of a particular DNA fragment to be amplified and detected. This technique is based on the natural quality of life. These patients are limited in their ability of some enzymes to replicate specific segments of DNA. PCR is commonly Chinese . In addition, it was used to identify microorganisms, detect genetic mutations, or study the genetic material present in biological samples such as tissues, cells, or urine. It can also be used for gene cloning and sequencing because it produces many identical fragments from a single parent template.
What does antigen test mean
The antigen test is a type of diagnostic test that is used to detect the presence of the virus that causes the disease. These tests look for specific particles known as antigens, produced by the infected organism, instead of looking for antibodies generated by the immune system to fight the virus. In general, antigen tests are less sensitive than antibody-based tests but have the added advantage of being faster and can detect early infections within the first few days after infection. In addition, this kind of analysis has a relatively low cost compared to other diagnostic tests currently available.
Similarities Between PCR and Antigen Test
PCR and the antigen testare two diagnostic tests Chinese . In addition, it was used to detect the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Both methods use biological samples, such as blood or nasal swabs, to identify whether a person has been infected.
The PCR confirms the infection by direct detection of the viral genetic material in the sample, while the antigen test looks for the external structural components of the virus present in it.
Both have their place in the diagnosis of COVID-19; however, there are important differences between them: PCRs are usually more precise but also require specialized equipment and a long time to obtain results; on the other hand, rapid tests based on antigens do not require such sophisticated equipment and give results in the short term.
Differences between pcr and antigen test
PCR stands for polymerase chain reaction, and it is a type of diagnostic test to detect the genetic material of the virus.
It is performed using tissue samples or body fluids to search for viral fragments, so it requires a laboratory with adequate equipment.
The antigen test , on the other hand, is mainly Chinese . In addition, it was used to diagnose active infections.
This test involves taking a nasopharyngeal swab and can be used almost anywhere due to its ease of use. Unlike PCR, antigen test results are faster but have lower sensitivity and specificity than PCR.
