COVID-19 Rapid Antibody Tests are now available at SKIN 101 Medspa by appointment only. 

The COVID-19 IgG/IgM (Whole Blood/Serum/Plasma) Rapid Test Device utilizes lateral flow technology that is used for the qualitative, differential detection of both anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgM and IgG antibodies. In general, antibodies can be detected 1-3 weeks after infection. This test is intended to screen patients for COVID-19.

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Antibodies are proteins that help your body fight off infections and usually provide protection against getting that disease again hence developing an immunity. Antibodies are specific to a particular disease. For example, a measles antibody will protect a person who is exposed again to measles but will not offer protection of any kind if the person is exposed to mumps.

What are the COVID symptoms I should look for?

COVID-19 symptoms* include the following:

• Fever or chills

• Diarrhea

• Nausea or vomiting

• Congestion or runny nose

• Sore throat

• New loss of taste or smell

• Headache

• Muscle or body aches

• Fatigue

• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

• Cough

*This does not include all possible symptoms.  We will update as information becomes available from the CDC.

How is the test administered?

This is a simple finger prick test to the thumb.

How long does it take to get COVID-19 test results?

The blood test for COVID-19 antibodies takes about 15 minutes for rapid test results.

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What does it mean if the specimen tests positive for antibodies against the virus that causes COVID-19?

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A positive test result with the COVID-19 IgG/IgM Rapid Test Cassette (Whole Blood/Serum/Plasma) indicates that antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 were detected, and the individual has potentially been exposed to SARS-CoV- 2.

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Antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 are generally detectable several days following infection. Individuals may have detectable virus present for several weeks following seroconversion. A positive result can indicate recent or past infection but does not exclude recently infected patients who are still contagious. It is unknown how long antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 will remain present in the body after infection and if they confer immunity to infection. Incorrect assumptions of immunity may lead to premature discontinuation of physical distancing requirements and increase the risk of infection for individuals, their households and the public.

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False positive results may occur due to cross-reactivity from pre-existing antibodies or other possible causes.

 

The COVID-19 IgG/IgM Rapid Test Cassette (Whole Blood/Serum/Plasma) has been designed to minimize the likelihood of false positive test results. However, in the event of a false positive result, risks to individuals could include the following: a recommendation for isolation of the individual, monitoring of household or other close contacts for symptoms, isolation that might limit contact with family or friends and may increase contact with other potentially COVID-19 individuals, limits in the ability to work, the delayed diagnosis and treatment for the true infection causing the symptoms, unnecessary prescription of a treatment or therapy, or other unintended adverse effects. Due to the risk of false positive results, confirmation of positive results should be considered – using a second,

different antibody assay that detects the same type of antibodies.

 

Laboratory test results should always be considered in the context of clinical observations and epidemiological data in making patient management decisions. All laboratories using this test must follow standard confirmatory testing and reporting guidelines according to their appropriate public health authorities.

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What does it mean if the specimen tests negative for antibodies against virus that causes COVID-19?

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A negative test result with this test means that SARS-CoV-2 specific antibodies were not present in the specimen above the limit of detection. However, patients tested early after infection may not have detectable antibodies despite active infection; in addition, it is not certain that all infected patients will develop a detectable antibody response to SARS-CoV- 2 infection. A negative result should not be used to rule out infection. Direct testing of SARS-CoV-2 should be performed if acute infection is suspected. The absolute sensitivity of the COVID-19 IgG/IgM Rapid Test Cassette (Whole Blood/Serum/Plasma) is unknown.

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Risks to an individual resulting from a false negative result include: restriction of activities deemed acceptable for individuals with evidence of an antibody response to SARS-CoV-2, lack of monitoring of infected individuals and their household or other close contacts for symptoms resulting in increased risk of spread of COVID-19 within the community, or other unintended adverse events.

Have questions, we've got answers. Give us a call now at 281-251-2400 to discuss testing and make your appointment.