What is an экспресс-тест and how does it work?

Introduction to Экспресс-тест

Экспресс-тест, or express test, refers to rapid diagnostic tests that deliver quick and reliable results in a short period, often within 15 to 30 minutes. These tests have become increasingly popular in various fields such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and environmental monitoring due to their speed and convenience.

How Экспресс-тестs Work

Экспресс-тестs operate on different mechanisms depending on their application. Most commonly, they utilize immunoassay techniques that involve the detection of target molecules (antigens or antibodies) through specific binding with labeled antibodies, often integrated into a lateral flow device.

For example, in a rapid antigen test, a sample collected from a patient is applied to the test strip. If the target antigen is present in the sample, it binds to the antibodies on the strip, producing a visible line that signifies a positive result. Results are typically available within 15 to 30 minutes, allowing for immediate decision-making.

Applications of Экспресс-тестs

Экспресс-тестs are employed in several areas, such as:

• Healthcare: Rapid tests for infectious diseases like COVID-19, influenza, and HIV, aiding in timely diagnosis and treatment.
• Pharmaceuticals: Used in drug development for quick screening of potential compounds.
• Environmental Monitoring: Detection of contaminants in water and soil for public safety.

Key Parameters and Numerical Analysis

The effectiveness of экспресс-тестs is evaluated based on parameters such as sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV).

• Sensitivity: The ability of the test to correctly identify those with the disease (true positive rate). Optimal sensitivity is usually above 90% in accurate tests.
• Specificity: The ability of the test to correctly identify those without the disease (true negative rate). High specificity provides fewer false positives and is often above 95% in reliable tests.
• PPV and NPV: Depend on the prevalence of the disease in the population. High prevalence increases PPV but decreases NPV and vice versa.

Company Solutions

Various companies offer экспресс-тестs tailored for different needs. Some notable ones include:

• ABBOTT Laboratories: Offers the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Ag Card, providing results in 15 minutes with high sensitivity and specificity.
• Roche Diagnostics: Produces rapid tests for viral infections and blood glucose monitoring.
• Quidel Corporation: Known for the QuickVue and Sofia series, providing point-of-care testing solutions across multiple conditions.

References

• World Health Organization. (2020). Advice on the use of point-of-care immunodiagnostic tests for COVID-19.
• Kickler, Thomas S., et al. Immunoassay and Other Non-Isotopic Immunodiagnostic Techniques. Clinical Chemistry, 2019.
• Abbott Official Website
• Roche Diagnostics Official Website
• Quidel Corporation Official Website