A review of nasopharyngeal swab and saliva tests for SARS-CoV-2 infection: Disease timelines, relative sensitivities, and test optimization

Testing is an essential part of containment of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic. This review summarizes studies for SARS-CoV-2 infection and testing. Nasopharyngeal samples are best at sensitivity detection, especially in early stages of disease and in asymptomatic individuals. Current swab processing involves a 100- to 1000-fold dilution of the patient sample. Future optimization of testing should focus on using smaller volumes of viral transport media and swab designs to increase comfort and increased viral adhesion.

Automated summary

Testing is crucial in containing the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Nasopharyngeal samples are most effective for sensitivity detection, and current swab processing involves diluting patient samples. Future testing optimization should focus on using smaller volumes of viral transport media and improving swab designs for increased comfort and viral adhesion.