Conclusion
Based on the real-world data described here, Standard ™ Q COVID-19 Ag
has the disadvantage of low diagnostic performance relative to the
RT-qPCR; its sensitivity varies with sampling time and with the amount
of viral nucleic acid contained in the sample. This test is best used
for subjects with high viral load and when done early after COVID-19
symptom onset. Pending its application in large scale, our data
recommend against using this test alone for COVID-19 diagnosis. This
RAT, therefore, has no benefit in replacing or reducing the use of
RT-qPCR assay for COVID-19 diagnosis at the time of pandemic.