Abstract

Background: In December 2019, a large number of patients with a novel coronavirus were identified in Wuhan, China. The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is highly contagious and increasing the rate of mortality day by day. The World Health Organization declared COVID-19 as a worldwide pandemic on March 11, 2020. Early diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 can restrict the COVID-19 pandemic.

Objective: We aim to study the currently available diagnostic methods for COVID-19.

Methods: World Health Organisation portal, Centre for Disease Control and Prevention portal, Indian Council of Medical Research portal, Chinese Centre for Disease Control and Prevention portal, Science Direct, Google Scholar, Research Gate, etc. were searched for obtaining data.

Results: Rapid diagnosis and prompt treatment can reduce the number of prospective cases. The diagnostic strategy encompasses the screening of the virus with nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) such as real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assays. Serological testing is a diagnostic procedure used for identifying the presence of immune responses. Radiological findings in individuals with COVID-19 are characterised by multiple areas of consolidation in the chest. Rapid antigen tests are in-vitro diagnostics that have been designed to give results within 10-20 min.

Conclusion: Rapid, simple, and safe diagnosis of COVID-19 has a great impact on deciding clinical and epidemiological factors. RT-PCR results often require 5 to 6 hours. Diagnosis by serological testing is not suitable but important epidemiologically. At present, the best radiological strategy remains undefined. Rapid antigen tests have limitations on sensitivity.

Keywords: COVID 19, diagnosis, RT-PCR, serology, radiological findings, SARS-CoV-2, pandemic.

Graphical Abstract