Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and rapid (antigen) tests for COVID-19 both involve taking a swab. Results for a PCR test take longer, as it needs to go to a laboratory. It is more costly but tends to ...

Researchers have built an RT-PCR platform that gives results in 23 minutes that match the longer laboratory-based tests -- faster than other PCR tests on the market. It can be adapted to test for a ...

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Researchers often call the polymerase chain reaction test – known as the PCR test – "the gold standard" for detecting the COVID-19 virus. The test is considered highly reliable and effective, and it ...

Antigen tests can identify the presence of antigens within the body, which are substances that cause immune responses, such as the release of antibodies. The immune system, and antibodies specifically ...

A PCR test is often considered the gold standard for detecting coronavirus infection. It’s the test some employers want employees to take before returning to work after having Covid-19, and the one ...

Mucor PCR testing of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid showed high specificity in identifying invasive pulmonary mucormycosis (IPM) in lung transplant recipients, especially when used in conjunction ...

Molecular tests are far superior to rapid antigen tests—and now you can get them for home use. Amanda Blum is a freelancer who writes about smart home technology, gardening, and food preservation.

Each week, we answer frequently asked questions about life during the coronavirus crisis. If you have a question you'd like us to consider for a future post, email us at goatsandsoda@npr.org with the ...