Serological Test is an Efficient Supplement of RNA Detection for Confirmation of SARS-CoV-2 Infection

Until now, viral RNA detection is almost the only way to confirm the infection of SARS-CoV-2 in practice. But varied reasons lead to the low sensitivity by RNA detection, which proposes serious challenge to disease control. We tested the performance of detecting total antibody(Ab) and IgM antibody in serum by the methods of chemiluminescence, Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay(ELISA), and colloidal gold. Data showed that the sensitivity and specificity for total Ab and IgM detection were high by all the three methods, and compared with IgM, the sensitivity was higher for total Ab detection. Evidence from studies showed viral RNA testing combining with serological testing could increase the sensitivity of diagnosis, while remaining the high specificity. Specific serolody test for SARS-CoV-2 has great value for clinical practice and public health.