Laboratory Performance on SARS-CoV-2 Detection by real-time PCR: A Prerequisite Evaluation for DMSc Laboratory Network
Keywords:
Proficiency testing, real-time PCR, SARS-CoV-2Abstract
Laboratory diagnosis on SARS-CoV-2 infection among suspected cases is crucial for effectiveness of control measure in order to limit COVID-19 transmission. Participation in proficiency testing (PT) is a prerequisite requirement prior to registering a service on SARS-CoV-2 detection using real-time PCR with the DMSc laboratory network. We, therefore, established the PT scheme to the network. The scheme panel was consisted of one negative and four positive samples with different concentrations of SARS-CoV-2 and distributed to 166 laboratories during January 31 to May 25, 2020. Our findings revealed that 166 laboratories (98.8%) showed results with 100% accuracy as compared with the panel, while 2 laboratories (1.2%) needed improvement on their performance. In addition, it was found that sensitivity of real-time PCR kits with gene E as targets is higher than those with genes N, ORF, and RdRp, as determined by cycle threshold. Evaluation of laboratory performance on SARS-CoV-2 detection prior to starting their services, can ensure customers on laboratory reliability and competencies. Hence, to monitor accuracy and reliability of testing performance throughout their services of SARS-CoV-2 testing, the DMSc laboratory network should continuously participate in this PT program.
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